Early intervention, untreated psychosis and the course of early schizophrenia

BACKGROUND: Studies have proved that early intervention can delay psychotic relapses, and prevent psychosocial deterioration in people with schizophrenia and related disorders. METHOD: Our study with young people with recent onset schizophrenia has shown that an intensive intervention programme had a beneficial effect on the occurrence of psychotic relapse and the course of psychotic syndromes. This effect lasted until the end of the 15-month intervention. No significant effect of the two different intervention conditions became apparent. RESULTS: The results of a follow-up study showed that this beneficial effect did not last. Fifteen per cent of the people had a psychotic relapse during the intervention, whereas 64% relapsed during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: These results show that referral to other mental health agencies after intervention is not sufficient and that more support is required to continue disease management, medication compliance and stress management