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Signs of Relapse in Schizophrenia

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By Editorial Team

3 min read

More than half of people with schizophrenia will have a relapse within 4 years of their first episode. During a relapse, symptoms that were in remission come back or get worse.1,2

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms in a relapse may include:

  • Delusions
  • Hallucinations
  • Social withdrawal
  • Disorganized speech
  • Talking in a dull voice
  • Low energy

Relapses are upsetting for people with schizophrenia and their families. These relapses can undo the progress you have made in treating your illness. Each relapse raises the risk that:1,2

  • Symptoms of psychosis will become permanent
  • You may have to go in for a hospital stay

Experts believe that recurrent relapses can lead to loss of brain tissue. If you have schizophrenia, a relapse can make you doubt your self-worth. This can lead to a downward spiral of hopelessness. You may see yourself as a victim of your illness.3

What are the early warning signs of relapse?

There are several early warning signs of a schizophrenia relapse. These include:3-6

  • Not taking prescribed medicines
  • Poor sleep
  • Suspiciousness
  • Paranoia
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Substance use

The person with schizophrenia may not be thinking clearly enough to recognize these signs. Family and friends might have to be on the alert to help them. Having strong social support helps people with schizophrenia cope with their illness.4,5

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What loved ones can do

If you are the loved one of someone with schizophrenia, and they are showing early warning signs of a relapse, reach out to their doctor or therapist as soon as possible. Early intervention is key when dealing with a relapse. The doctor may suggest a change in medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy might help the person with schizophrenia tell what is real from what is not.3,6

Include the person with schizophrenia in their treatment plan whenever possible. If possible, encourage them to join a support group if they are not already part of one. It can be comforting knowing that you are not the only person with these symptoms.3,6

Can technology help prevent relapse?

Researchers are turning to technology to prevent relapse in schizophrenia. There has been a growth in different ways to track early warning signs of relapse. One tool is the ecological momentary assessment (EMA).2,5

EMA asks targeted questions as the person with schizophrenia goes about their day. Because these assessments are in the moment, the EMA gets more accurate information than later recall.2,5

This data can now be captured using a smartphone to create a treatment called ecological momentary intervention (EMI). EMI has been described as a "therapist in your pocket" approach. Treatment is delivered through your mobile device and is designed to respond to symptoms more quickly.2

EMI can be used by itself or with other treatments. Personalized EMA and EMI lets people with schizophrenia take a more active role in managing their symptoms at an earlier stage.2

Additional tools for monitoring schizophrenia symptoms

Passive sensing data technology is another tool to track early warning signs. This technology monitors people with schizophrenia, but does not need them to assess themselves. The person's smartphone shares information with the person's treatment team about:2

This technology can also collect audio. The audio is used to look for markers of depression or other symptoms. The designers are hoping to lower the risk of relapse through a combination of:2

  • Smartphone technology
  • Therapy
  • Peer support

What other resources are available?

The National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH) website is a central source of information for people dealing with mental illness. There, you can find:

  • Fact sheets about schizophrenia
  • Tips for talking with doctors about your mental health concerns
  • Links to federal resources such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Helplines for schizophrenia

SAMHSA offers a national helpline (1-800-662-HELP) and information about treatment options, addiction, and paying for treatment.

The Schizophrenia and Psychosis Action Alliance offers:

  • A helpline
  • Support groups
  • Ways to advocate for people with schizophrenia

If you are in crisis or feeling suicidal, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Schizophrenia.Mental-Health-Community.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.