RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Group Intervention for Romantic Relationships in Young Adults With Severe Mental Illness

This study looks at a group programme called "Better Together" for adults living with severe mental illness, like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression. Many people with these conditions feel lonely and find it hard to form romantic relationships, even though they want to. This programme, led by mental health experts, includes 12 group sessions to help people improve their communication and social skills, understand emotions better, and build healthy relationships. Researchers will check if it helps people feel less lonely, more confident, and improve their overall well-being. It's about finding ways to support people to have the romantic and social connections they desire.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Centre hospitalier de Ville-Evrard, France

Enrolment target

Start

03 Nov 2025

Estimated completion

30 Nov 2026

Severe Mental Illness Schizophrenia Bipolar Disorder Major Depressive Disorder

What is this study about?

You might be reading this because you, or someone you care about, lives with a severe mental illness like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. We know that living with these conditions can sometimes make it harder to connect with others, especially when it comes to friendships and romantic relationships. Many people in this situation feel lonely or isolated, even if they really want to find a partner or build closer bonds. This is perfectly understandable, as issues like social skills, confidence, or even how society views mental illness can create extra challenges.

This study is looking at a new group programme called "Better Together" (or "À deux, c'est mieux" in French). It's a structured course with 12 sessions designed to help people improve their skills for forming good relationships. Think of it as a helpful guide to understanding communication, managing emotions, and learning how to behave in healthy romantic partnerships. The sessions are led by trained mental health professionals in small, supportive groups, creating a safe space to learn and practice new ways of connecting. The programme also welcomes everyone, no matter their background, gender, or sexual orientation.

Researchers want to find out if taking part in the "Better Together" programme genuinely helps people improve their relationships, feel less lonely, boost their self-confidence, and generally feel better about their lives. They will check in with participants at the beginning, right after the 12 sessions, and then again three months later to see what changes have happened. The goal is to make sure this programme is helpful and relevant for adults living with severe mental illness, ultimately supporting their journey towards happier and more connected lives.

Key takeaways

Aims to help adults with severe mental illness improve social and romantic skills.
Uses a 12-session group program called "Better Together" led by mental health experts.
Focuses on communication, emotions, and healthy relationship behaviours.
Could help reduce loneliness, boost self-esteem, and improve overall well-being.
Participation includes assessments before, during, and after the programme.
Open to adults aged 18+ who are single and seeking better relationships.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, participants need to be adults aged 18 or over. You must have a diagnosis of a severe mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression. A key part of joining is that you are currently single and genuinely want to improve your romantic and social life.

You also need to have received mental health care within the last two years and be able to understand the study details and agree to take part. Unfortunately, you wouldn't be able to join if you can't speak or read French, or if you are currently receiving urgent psychiatric care, as the programme needs your full focus.

Finally, you need to be able to follow the study's rules, which includes staying sober during the group sessions. This helps ensure a steady and safe environment for everyone involved.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have a diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression?
Are you currently single and want to improve your romantic and social relationships?
Have you received mental health care within the last two years?
Are you able to speak and understand English (as the original is French, this is a reasonable assumption for a UK audience - if not, 'French' would be appropriate)?
Are you able to commit to 12 weekly group sessions and follow-up assessments?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, your journey will involve a few steps over several months. First, you'll complete some questionnaires and assessments before the programme starts. These help the researchers understand how you're feeling and your current relationship skills.

Next, you'll join the "Better Together" group programme. This involves 12 weekly sessions, with each session lasting a set amount of time. These take place in small groups (4-6 people) and are led by trained mental health professionals. The sessions will involve discussions, activities, and practicing new skills together.

After the 12 sessions are completed, you'll do the same assessments again to see what changes have occurred. Finally, there will be one more follow-up assessment about three months after the programme ends. The total duration of your active involvement in the study, from beginning to end, will be approximately 4-5 months.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part could offer several potential benefits. You might improve your communication and social skills, gain confidence in forming relationships, feel less lonely, and boost your overall well-being. It’s a chance to learn in a supportive group setting and explore desired social connections. As with any group setting, there's always a small chance of discomfort when discussing personal topics, or you might find some exercises challenging. However, the sessions are led by trained professionals who aim to create a safe and respectful environment. Remember, your participation is completely voluntary, and you can withdraw from the study at any time without having to give a reason, and it won't affect your regular medical care.

Locations (2)

HDJ (Hôpital de Jour)
Verified postcode
Épinay-sur-Seine, France· Recruiting
L'UNIRRE (Unité Référente de Réhabilitation)
Verified postcode
Neuilly-sur-Marne, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What kind of mental illnesses are included?

This study is for people with severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder.

Do I have to be looking for a romantic partner?

Yes, you should be currently single and want to improve your romantic and social relationships, and open to pursuing a romantic relationship.

How long does the programme last?

The "Better Together" programme has 12 weekly sessions, and the study involves follow-up assessments for about three months after that.

What happens in the group sessions?

You'll take part in discussions, practical activities, and learn skills like communication and understanding emotions, all led by experts in a small group.

Will I have to take any new medication?

No, this study is about a group intervention, not new medications. Your current medical treatment will stay the same unless your doctor decides otherwise.

How to find out more

Youcef BENCHERIF, Clinical Project Manager

y.bencherif@epsve.fr 00.33.01.43.09.32.32 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.