Effectiveness of a tailored psycho-educational program in reducing self-loathing, dissociation, and suicidal behavior among patients with psychiatric disorders

Abstract

Suicidal behavior is not the result of a single cause or event, but rather reflects interacting clinical and psychosocial factors. Potential facilitators include dissociation and self-hate. This study assessed the association between a tailored psychoeducational program and changes in self-loathing, dissociation, and suicidal behavior among patients with psychiatric disorders. A quasi-experimental, non-randomized controlled design was utilized (study and control groups with follow-up). The study was conducted at the Psychiatric Health Hospital and Addiction Treatment, Benha City, Qalubia Governorate. A purposive sample of 60 patients was recruited. Data were collected using a structured sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire, a self-loathing scale, the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), and a suicidal behavior scale. Total dissociation scores in the study group decreased from baseline (2.20 ± 0.71) to post-intervention (1.60 ± 0.67) and remained unchanged at follow-up (1.60 ± 0.67), whereas the control group remained stable across assessments (2.30 ± 0.70). Mixed repeated-measures ANOVA showed a significant group × time interaction for total dissociation (F = 43.50, p < 0.001, η²p = 0.60). Significant group × time interactions were also observed across all dissociation dimensions (all p < 0.001). In addition, self-loathing and suicidal behavior improved significantly in the study group across post-intervention and follow-up assessments compared with the control group (p < 0.001). The psychoeducational program was associated with improved self-loathing, dissociation, and suicidal behavior outcomes over time among psychiatric patients in this setting. Given the non-randomized design, causal inference should be made cautiously, and further studies using stronger designs and longer follow-up are recommended. Not applicable.