Interrelationship Between Symptom Severity and Quality of Life Domains in Schizophrenia: A Clinical Study at a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh

Background: Schizophrenia is a long-lasting psychiatric condition characterised by intricate interactions among biological, psychological, and social factors, significantly affecting the Quality of Life (QoL) of patients. Evaluating QoL across various domains aids in comprehending the wider implications of the illness that extend beyond mere symptom management. Objectives: This study aims to assess the correlation between the severity of symptoms and domain-specific Quality of Life (QoL) in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, utilising the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) alongside the WHOQOL-BREF assessment tools. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out involving 178 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia who were receiving care at both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services at the Government General Hospital in Guntur. Sociodemographic data, symptomatology, and QoL were assessed using PANSS and WHOQOL-BREF, with statistical correlations between PANSS and QoL domains analysed via SPSS v26. Results: The social relationships domain exhibited the lowest mean QoL score, suggesting a notable degree of social impairment. There exists a significant positive correlation between occupation and both physical and psychological health domains (p<0.05). Elevated total scores on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) were found to correlate negatively with all QoL domains, thereby affirming that greater symptom severity is indicative of diminished well-being. Conclusion: The burden of symptoms and the status of employment have a considerable impact on the QoL for individuals with schizophrenia. The incorporation of psychosocial rehabilitation, occupational therapy, and proactive management of symptoms may improve the overall life satisfaction and functioning of these patients.