OBJECTIVE:

This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Illness Management and Recovery program implemented in a group format.

METHODS:

A total of 210 persons with a severe mental illness receiving treatment at rehabilitation centers in the community in Israel were randomly assigned to either the Illness Management and Recovery program or treatment as usual. The Illness Management and Recovery Scale (client and clinician versions) and measures of coping and social support were administered to participants before and after the intervention.

RESULTS:

Participants in the Illness Management and Recovery program showed significant improvement in knowledge about their illness and progress toward their personal goals compared with those receiving treatment as usual. Clinician ratings also indicated significant improvement in overall outcome for clients in the Illness Management and Recovery program compared with those who received treatment as usual. Significant improvement in coping was found in both groups, and no change in social support was found for either group.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Illness Management and Recovery program was effective in increasing clients' knowledge of their illness and helping them make progress toward personal goals.