Assessment of compliance and relapse in patients with schizophrenia before and after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic

The aim of this study was to assess the frequency and correlates of relapse among patients with schizophrenia during the COVID-19 pandemic.This retrospective study included 90 adults who met DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia. The participants were evaluated using Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Compliance Rating Scale (CRS) and World Health Organisation Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) before and after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic.The mean score of CRS was decreased after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic compared to before COVID 19 (The relapse rate had increased among patients with schizophrenia during COVID-19 pandemic. Non-compliance with medications and lack of family support were the main correlates of relapse in schizophrenia.Key PointsPatients with schizophrenia are at high risk for relapse during Covid-19 pandemic.Non-compliance with medications, lack of family support, COVID-19-related illness or death of family members and following the news of the pandemic are correlates of relapse in patients with schizophrenia.Psychoeducation, availability of medications and mental health services and family support may help to prevent relapse in patients with schizophrenia during pandemics.Prospective studies are needed to confirm the findings of this study.