A Systematic Review of Tai Chi-based Interventions for Positive and Negative Symptoms, Cognitive Functioning, and Quality of Life in Psychosis

TL;DR

This paper reviews Tai Chi's effects on psychosis symptoms and cognitive function, finding it acceptable but with limited long-term benefits.

Contribution

The study provides the first systematic review of Tai Chi's impact on psychosis symptoms and cognitive deficits in Asian populations.

Findings

Tai Chi interventions were acceptable and well-tolerated in individuals with psychosis.

Small to medium effects were observed for improving negative symptoms and cognitive deficits.

Improvements were not sustained over time, and evidence is limited to Asian populations.

Abstract

This study aimed to provide a systematic review of Tai Chi interventions in psychosis and their impact on positive and negative symptoms, cognitive deficits and quality of life. There is growing evidence that the mind–body practice of Tai Chi has value in treating and preventing mental health-related problems, such as stress and anxiety. However, it is unclear whether they are effective or beneficial in serious mental illnesses such as psychosis. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The review protocol was registered (PROSPERO). The review examined studies which included adults with diagnosed psychotic disorders who participated in treatment studies examining Tai Chi or Qigong interventions using quantitative measures of positive and negative symptoms, cognitive deficits and quality of life. The search was conducted in August 2024. Data were extracted by two independent researchers and analysed using a narrative synthesis approach. Three-hundred and eighty one papers were screened with six studies included in the final review. Publications spanned from 2012–2022. All studies were based in Asia. Tai Chi interventions were acceptable, and well-tolerated. Outcomes indicated small-medium effective sizes in improving negative symptoms, and cognitive deficits. However largely, these improvements were not maintained over time. The current review suggests that Tai Chi is an acceptable, well-tolerated intervention in individuals with long-term psychotic illnesses in Asian populations There is tentative evidence that it may have a positive impact for negative symptoms and cognitive deficits. Well-controlled studies should be encouraged in Western settings.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10597-025-01483-8.

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