Early intervention, untreated psychosis and the course of early schizophrenia

Studies have proved that early intervention can delay psychotic relapses, and prevent psychosocial deterioration in people with schizophrenia and related disorders.

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.

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.

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.