Preventing EPISODE II: relapse prevention in first-episode psychosis.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This paper outlines a rationale for expanding research and clinical innovations focused upon relapse prevention following a first episode of psychosis. Some general principles for further progress are extracted from an overview of the first-episode psychosis (FEP) relapse literature. A cognitive behaviour therapy intervention for relapse prevention for FEP, that has been developed at the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre, is described to illustrate these principles. CONCLUSIONS: Further progress is needed in refining interventions specific to the prevention of relapse following FEP. Future progress is dependent upon improved understanding of the interaction of bio..