Motivation Skills Training for Serious Mental Illness

(MST Trial)

This trial tests a new therapy called Motivation Skills Training (MST) for individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. The researchers aim to determine if MST improves motivation and the ability to set and achieve personal goals. Participants will attend weekly group sessions focusing on either motivation skills (MST) or healthy behaviors (HBC) over 12-14 weeks. Suitable candidates have been diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, are stable outpatients, and can speak English. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance personal goal-setting and motivation strategies.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems likely that you can continue your medications since the trial focuses on motivation skills training and not on medication changes.

Research has shown that Motivation Skills Training (MST) is under study to determine its safety and effectiveness for individuals with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia. Some studies have examined participants' responses to this training and suggest that MST is generally well-tolerated, with few problems or side effects reported.

The study is labeled as "Not Applicable" in terms of phase, indicating that MST focuses more on therapy than on introducing new drugs. This approach typically involves lower risks, as it emphasizes skill development in a group setting. So far, no major issues or safety concerns have been reported.

Researchers are excited about Motivation Skills Training (MST) because it offers a unique approach to managing serious mental illness. Unlike standard treatments that often focus on medication or traditional therapy, MST is a group-based skills training intervention designed to help individuals understand and manage their motivation. By improving self-awareness and the ability to regulate motivation, MST aims to enhance a person's ability to initiate and sustain goal-directed behavior, potentially leading to better long-term outcomes. This focus on motivation as a key driver of behavior is what sets MST apart from existing options.

This trial will compare Motivation Skills Training (MST) with a Healthy Behaviors Control Group. Research shows that MST helps people with serious mental illnesses, like schizophrenia, improve their motivation. MST focuses on helping individuals understand their drives and teaches skills to stay focused on their goals. Although specific data on MST's effectiveness for schizophrenia is limited, similar community programs have positively affected social interactions and quality of life. These programs often help people develop better coping strategies and improve daily living skills. MST aims to increase motivation, which is often challenging for those with serious mental illnesses, potentially leading to better condition management.¹²⁶⁷⁸