THE SOCIAL SITUATION OF SCHIZOPHRENIC-PAT IENTS

In the German mutlicentre ANI study comparing continuous prophylactic treatment with intermittent medication,the social situation of a large sample of 364 schizophrenic patients was investigated and followed up over a 2-year period of outpatient aftercare. Effective therapy and p rophylaxis substantially reduced relapses and rehospitalization. On th e other hand, the psychosocial situation still showed considerable dis advantages. Of the patients (35 years old on average), 60% were still unmarried. Almost one-half of the patients still lived alone or with t heir parents, and one-third lived a very solitary life. At the end of the 2-year aftercare period, one-third was able to earn their own livi ng. Almost one-half retired early from their occupations. Predictors a nd intervening variables are presented in order to stimulate early reh abilitation approaches. Schizophrenics are particularly placed at a di sadvantage by tighter competition in the employment market, even thoug h the course of illness can be improve. Social psychiatry must to be i nvolved in helping to improve social contacts, accommodation and emplo yment in order to prevent major distress.