Toward an integrated approach to the treatment of schizophrenia

Long-term outcome studies have shown that schizophrenia is an illness whose course is usually characterized by exacerbations and remissions. This chapter summarizes pertinent literature regarding treatment of acute episodes; early intervention to prevent the development of full relapse; and pharmacological, behavioral, and psychotherapeutic strategies designed to decrease the amount of stress and patients' vulnerability to stress and thus decrease the likelihood of relapse. An emphasis is placed on a comprehensive treatment approach involving continuity of care.