Enhancing Cognitive Training Through Exercise Following a First Schizophrenia Episode

24 weeks of systematic computerized cognitive training, 4 hours per week. The first 12 weeks involves neurocognitive training, using auditory training exercises from Posit Science Brain HQ. The 2nd 12 weeks involves social cognitive training, using the Posit Science SocialVille modules. A weekly one-hour Bridging Skills Group is designed to aid generalization of training to everyday life situations.

Aerobic exercise occurs as two 45-minute sessions at the clinic and two 30-minute sessions at home weekly. Exercise involves an adaptation of interval training, including a variety of calisthenics that can be done without specialized equipment. Intensity of aerobic exercise is tailored to maintain an individualized target heart rate zone and is monitored by a heart rate recorder.

An individual therapist will provide weekly case management and therapy targeting the individual psychological problems and everyday functioning needs of the patient

An job/school specialist will use the Individual Placement and Support model to help participants return to school or work and provide ongoing outreach support.