Background: Recent studies
have shown that people with serious mental disorders spend time online
for the purposes of disclosure, information gathering, or gaming.
However, coherent information on the effects of social media on
treatment for people with schizophrenia is still lacking.

Objective: Our
aim was to determine the effects of social media interventions for
supporting mental health and well-being among people with schizophrenia.

Methods: A
systematic review and meta-analysis were undertaken to determine the
effects of social media interventions for supporting mental health and
well-being among people with schizophrenia. Ten databases were searched,
while search parameters included English-only manuscripts published
prior to June 25, 2015. Study appraisals were made independently by 2
reviewers, and qualitative and quantitative syntheses of data were
conducted.

Results: Out
of 1043 identified records, only two randomized studies of moderate
quality (three records, total N=331, duration 12 months) met the
inclusion criteria. Participants were people with schizophrenia spectrum
or an affective disorder. Social media was used as part of Web-based
psychoeducation, or as online peer support (listserv and bulletin
board). Outcome measures included perceived stress, social support, and
disease-related distress. At 3 months, participants with schizophrenia
in the intervention group reported lower perceived stress levels (P=.04) and showed a trend for a higher perceived level of social support (P=.06).
However, those who reported more positive experiences with the peer
support group also reported higher levels of psychological distress (P=.01).