Background. The paper describes a randomized controlled trial of targeting cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) during prodromal or early signs of relapse in schizophrenia. We hypothesized that CBT would result in reduced admission and relapse, reduced positive and negative symptoms, and improved social functioning.

Monitoring Fear of Recurrence is as sensitive to relapse detection as monitoring early signs alone. Greater Fear of Relapse was associated with shorter duration to actual relapse. Fear of recurrence may be an important clinical feature linked to poorer emotional recovery and increased risk of relapse. Fear of Recurrence may be an important focus of psychological therapy to promote emotional recovery and prevention of relapse.