RESUMO
The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of support groups on caregivers of patients with schizophrenia. This was a time series nonequivalent control group design. Subjects were evaluated in three waves of data collection: before intervention, after intervention and one-month follow-up. The support group's effects were measured using changes in the subjects' perceived levels of burden, depression status and satisfaction about their participation in the program. Professionally led support group had a close and time-limited format. The GEE (generalized estimated equation) revealed differences in caregivers' level of burden and depression status between the support and control groups in the post-test and one-month follow-up. The differences highlighted the fact that participation in support groups provides more effective assistance to caregivers than the control group.