Psychosocial triggers of relapse in persons with chronic mental illness: a pilot study

An exploration of the events preceding a relapse in patients with a chronic mental illness was conducted to determine if these events could have been managed more effectively to prevent the relapse. Patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia or psychotic disorder admitted to a state psychiatric facility over a 12-day period were invited to review the events preceding their relapse. A total of 5 subjects agreed to participate. From these reports the investigators were able to identify the critical events precipitating the downward spiral into relapse. Suggestions for better management of these events were developed. Results from this initial exploration suggest a need for additional study of the triggers preceding psychotic episodes.