ABSTRACT

Objective: This study aimed to provide evidence for the application of non-pharmacological interventions (NPI) in the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS), by systematically analyzing the types and effects of NPI in patients with TRS. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, EBSCOhost CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library, covering the period from January 2015 to March 2024. The search used keywords, including TRS, Rehabilitation, therapy, and interventions. Based on the PRISMA guidelines, 12 studies were selected for review. Results: Analysis of the 12 selected studies identified two main categories of intervention: electroconvulsive therapy and psychosocial intervention. Studies on electroconvulsive therapy demonstrated a reduction in psychiatric symptoms. Similarly, studies employing psychosocial interventions revealed a decrease in psychiatric symptoms, along with improvements in activities of daily living, quality of life, and social cognition. Conclusion: The available evidence confirms that NPI can yield positive outcomes on psychiatric symptoms, cognition, and daily functioning in patients with TRS. Therefore, a multifaceted approach that includes the application of an appropriate NPI along with efforts to overcome therapeutic resistance is essential for the recovery of patients with schizophrenia. We hope that the findings of this study will serve as a foundation for the development of more comprehensive treatment approaches.