The role of neuroleptics in an integrated treatment program for chronic schizophrenics

An integrated treatment programme for patients with psychoses and hospitalization syndromes is presented. Most of the patients are schizophrenics with many years of hospital care. Neuroleptics are used in conventional doses and since 1971 flupenthixol decanoate is the drug of choice. The residual states are analyzed as well from a medical as from a social psychological point of view. Psychotherapy and social training inside and outside the hospital were means to reach treatment progress. Behaviour therapy was successful on the most deteriorated patients and in young patients a more psychodynamic approach was used including family therapy. Forty-two patients were activated to a life in flats. In 21 patients living near the hospital an economic analysis was made. The economic benefits of the treatment are large. The results show that patients suffering from chronic mental diseases must be treated with a composed programme including medical, social, and psychological parts.