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.