Epinay Sur Seine

Researchers are evaluating a group-based program called "À deux, c'est mieux" 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 difficulties forming romantic relationships despite a strong desire for intimacy. This study aims to see if the program can improve romantic and social functioning, quality of life, and overall well-being for these adults. The intervention consists of 12 weekly group sessions led by trained mental health professionals, with groups of 4 to 6 participants. The sessions follow a structured progression starting from topics like attraction, communication, and relationship initiation, then moving to more sensitive areas such as emotional intimacy, attachment-related anxiety, and sexuality. The program uses group discussions, experiential exercises, and practical strategies and is inclusive of sexual and gender diversity. Participants will be assessed at three points: before starting the program, after completing the 12 sessions, and three months after the intervention ends. Researchers will measure changes in romantic relationship functioning as the primary outcome, along with quality of life, loneliness, self-esteem, internalized stigma, and recovery. The study employs a design where each participant serves as their own control, tracking improvements over time without a separate inactive group.