QUALITY OF LIFE AND SOCIAL SUPPORT IN PATIENTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA

Schizophrenia is considered by WHO as one of the ten most disabling diseases. Being a complex and chronic disorder, it generates a significant damage on patients' lives, impairing their quality of life. Social support is a factor that reduces the impact of mental disorders such as schizophrenia. Based on a reflective critical metaanalysis, in order to further understanding the factors that act in a better quality of life and social support for patients with this disease, we used the PubMed and Scopus databases, considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results indicated 10 articles that have investigated the variables quality of life and / or social support in patients with schizophrenia. Moreover, we also identified, social support and social functioning as predictors of a better quality of life. However, few studies analyzed directly the relationship between these two variables, as well as factors that improve the quality of life and / or social support. Implications for the promotion of quality of life and social support of these patients are suggested, as well as the need for more research in the area.