Temple researchers examine effectiveness of online support groups for mentally ill

By Staff Writer

Researchers from Temple University (TU) have discovered that online peer support groups for people with mental illnesses can have mixed results. These web-based tools can provide emotional support for isolated individuals, but they are likely to have little or no effect on one's condition.

The Rehabilitation Department at TU examined the well-being of 300 participants who suffered from severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, bipolar and depressive disorders. These people were randomly assigned to three different groups: an email list, an online bulletin board and a control group.

After a year, the researchers found that participation in the email and the bulletin board groups did not have much effect on their mental condition, compared to those in the control group. However, some people reported that the peer support groups were somewhat beneficial. They said that it was comforting to share their hardships with other people who had similar problems.

The study's authors suggested that clinicians should become more familiar with online groups because they have become so common. Furthermore, medical professionals should educate their patients about safe Internet use and other privacy concerns.

Teens who suffer from mental health disorders may benefit from boarding schools, many of which allow adolescents to bond with other adolescents who have similar experiences.