Evaluating a 12-Session Group Program to Improve Romantic Relationships in Adults with Severe Mental Illness

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a group-based intervention called deux, cest mieux Better Together designed to improve romantic and social relationship skills in adults living with severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder. Many adults with these conditions experience loneliness, social isolation, and difficulty forming romantic relationships despite a strong desire for intimacy. The study aims to determine if this intervention improves romantic and social functioning, quality of life, and overall well-being. The intervention consists of a structured program with 12 weekly group sessions led by trained mental health professionals. These small groups of 4 to 6 participants explore topics like attraction, communication, emotional intimacy, attachment-related anxiety, and sexuality. The program uses discussions, exercises, and practical strategies to enhance communication, emotional regulation, social understanding, and healthy romantic relationship behaviors, welcoming all sexual and gender identities. Participants will complete assessments before the program starts, immediately after the 12 sessions, and again three months later. Researchers will measure changes in romantic relationship functioning, quality of life, loneliness, self-esteem, internalized stigma, and recovery. The study uses a design where each participant serves as their own control to track progress over time. This study lasts from the initial assessment through the three-month follow-up after the intervention.

Group Intervention for Romantic Relationships in Young Adults With Severe Mental Illness