This comprehensive review examines the role of relapse prevention interventions in helping patients with schizophrenia and their families manage and reduce the risk of psychotic relapse. A total of 12 studies published between 2011 and 2019 were analyzed, covering a range of psychosocial and family-focused interventions. These studies included randomized controlled trials, qualitative interviews, and quasi-experimental designs conducted across diverse countries. Interventions examined included psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, optimal case management, technology-based tools, and culturally tailored family programs.

Findings consistently show that engaging both patients and their families in structured intervention strategies significantly reduces relapse rates, improves medication adherence, enhances social functioning, and shortens hospital stays. The review identifies strong evidence supporting family involvement as a key factor in early symptom recognition and sustained remission. Despite the clear benefits, such interventions are underutilized in many regions, including Jordan, where research has mainly focused on general mental health rather than interventional approaches. The review calls for broader implementation of these evidence-based practices and further research to support widespread adoption, including cost-effective and scalable models to strengthen family participation in schizophrenia care.

Reference: Abu Sabra MA, Hamdan-Mansour AM. The effectiveness of relapse prevention intervention on the ability of patients and their families to prevent psychotic symptoms of relapse among patients with schizophrenia: systematic literature review. Medico-Legal Update. 2021;21(3):393-400.

Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder affecting about 1 in 100 people worldwide, often emerging in late adolescence or early adulthood. It impairs the ability to recognize reality, think clearly, and function socially. Symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and reduced emotional expression. Cognitive issues, such as poor working memory, also affect daily functioning. The illness is thought to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While it cannot be prevented, early detection and treatment improve long-term outcomes. Diagnosis is complex and requires time and thorough evaluation, as other conditions can mimic psychotic symptoms.

Treatment for schizophrenia involves a combination of medication and psychosocial support. While medications help control positive symptoms, they vary in effectiveness and side effects. Psychosocial interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, supported employment, family education, and substance abuse programs, are essential to improving quality of life and treatment adherence. The prognosis varies, but early, sustained care can significantly reduce the illness’s impact. Regular monitoring and a strong support network are key to managing symptoms and maintaining function over time.

Reference: LeWine H. Schizophrenia. Harvard Health Publishing. Published September 19, 2024. Accessed July 9, 2025. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/schizophrenia-a-to-z

Researchers of a recent systematic review evaluated 56 longitudinal studies using positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography imaging in schizophrenia-spectrum disorders (SSD), analyzing over 1,300 patients. The most frequently studied systems involved dopamine synthesis and receptor availability, with tracers like [¹⁸F]FDOPA and [¹¹C]raclopride offering strong predictive value for psychosis conversion, treatment response, and side-effect management. Although imaging has clarified pathophysiological mechanisms—such as presynaptic dopamine overactivity—it remains underutilized in clinical settings, partly due to variability in study design, imaging protocols, and reporting.

Molecular imaging holds strong promise for personalizing care in SSD, particularly in identifying treatment-resistant patients and optimizing antipsychotic dosing. Evidence also points to emerging imaging targets like neuroinflammation, synaptic density, and glutamatergic activity, which could offer insights into negative symptoms and cognitive deficits. However, standardization, cost, and accessibility remain key challenges. A shift toward shorter scan protocols, use of long half-life tracers, and randomized clinical trials will be essential to transition these tools from research to routine care. Ultimately, integrating molecular imaging could help guide earlier interventions, improve outcomes, and reduce the burden of illness across the schizophrenia spectrum.

Reference: Rogeau A, Boer AJ, Guedj E, et al. EANM perspective on clinical PET and SPECT imaging in schizophrenia-spectrum disorders: a systematic review of longitudinal studies. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging. 2025;52(3):876-899. doi: 10.1007/s00259-024-06987-1.