Perceived risk of relapse and role of medication: comparison between patients with psychosis and their caregivers

Abstract

This study explored the views of patients and their caregivers on the perceived risk of relapse and role of medication in preventing relapse, and the potential significance. Specific interventions addressing these areas should be considered in developing relapse prevention programs.

Rates and predictors of disengagement of patients with first‐episode psychosis from the early intervention service for sychosis service (EASY) covering 15 to 64 years of age in Hong Kong

“…The rate of complete disengagement of the current population was lower than the results of the equivalent Western studies. Patients in Hong Kong tend to live with family (Chan et al, ) who are highly involved as caregivers (Chan et al, ). This possible cultural difference is an important element to explore in the difference between Asian and Western patient outcomes.…”

Managing information gaps on caregivers of psychotic patients in primary health settings of Yogyakarta, Indonesia

“…For future directions, our ongoing project is to explore the impacts of increased knowledge on the management of the disorder by caregivers after brief psycho-education by primary health care workers, particularly on relapse prevention, contact with mental health service providers, and adherence to pharmacotherapy. 13 In our previous study in a hospital based setting, the brief psycho-education reduced rehospitalisation (6% in the intervention group compared to 18% in the control group). 7 It has been reported that in Indonesia, within two years patients with schizophrenia relapse 1.48 times on average with the highest recurrence frequency within two years is four times.…”

Perception towards relapse and its predictors in psychosis patients: A qualitative study

“…8 Although all of our participants regarded themselves as having less than 50% chance of relapse, the current literature suggested that 76.5-87.5% of patients perceived themselves as having a relapse rate of 50% or less. 8,9 Most of the participants suggested that once they are taking medication, the risk of relapse can be largely reduced, or can even be entirely prevented. Our finding was consistent with previous studies where patients believed that the chance of relapse can be lowered by having a better mental state, maintaining positive thoughts and avoiding stress.…”

“…Our finding was consistent with previous studies where patients believed that the chance of relapse can be lowered by having a better mental state, maintaining positive thoughts and avoiding stress. 8,9 Patients were generally optimistic about their future and thought they were in control of the possibility of relapse in the future.…”