Brain scans reveal how therapy may help schizophrenia patients kick the habit

NCT ID NCT07441928

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a type of talking therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help people with schizophrenia quit smoking and reduce their psychotic symptoms. Researchers will use brain scans (fMRI) to see if the therapy changes how the brain responds to cravings. The trial involves 90 participants who will attend group therapy sessions over several weeks, with follow-up at 6 months.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new way to help people with schizophrenia quit smoking and ease their psychotic symptoms.

What could go wrong

This is an early study with only 90 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Previous research showed only modest quit rates, and the therapy may not work for all.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

nicotine dependence schizophrenia Smoking Cessation

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Lok Hong Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness, Tung Wah Group of Hospitals

    RECRUITING

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong

    Contact

  • Mental Health and Development, Christian Family Service Centre

    RECRUITING

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Out-patient Clinic (Psy), Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong

    Contact

  • The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong

    RECRUITING

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong

    Contact

  • The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention

    RECRUITING

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong

    Contact