Relapse in Psychosis

Relapse—including symptom exacerbations and a deterioration in functioning that often requires hospitalization—can be demoralizing for persons with a severe mental illness like psychosis. Relapses can interfere with independent living, work, and community adjustment; therefore, minimizing relapses is a common treatment goal. ¹In fact, for many years the primary goal of treatment for these disorders was the prevention of relapses and the successful maintenance of a stable clinical state. Although relapse prevention continues to be an important focus of treatment, stable clinical functioning is no longer a sufficient long-term treatment goal. Patients with major mental illnesses can achieve much more than just a stable clinical state; they can continue to grow as individuals and lead rewarding, productive, and meaningful lives, despite experiencing some symptoms or impairments, if proper relapse prevention guidelines are implemented.