The stages of schizophrenia and their management.

Schizophrenia is a common and chronic disease with acute exacerbations. The chronic form of the disease results in a long-standing thought disorder and psychosocial impairment. The fluctuating nature of the disease results in a variety of presentations, for which the physician must choose the appropriate biological, psychological and social therapies. The stages of schizophrenia are described in terms of the patient's reaction to his symptoms and disabilities: anxiety, denial, ambivalence, depression and acceptance. The treatment plan must be modified according to these stages and the patient's circumstances.