Social Psychiatry, Vol. 54 No. 2, 2026.
Meeting abstract
https://doi.org/10.24869/spsih.2026.141
The Clinical Course of Schizophrenia in the 21st Century: From Chronic Deterioration to the Recovery Model
Miroslav Herceg
; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Bolnička cesta 32, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized
by considerable heterogeneity in clinical
course and outcome. Traditional concepts, based
on Kraepelin’s model of progressive deterioration,
are increasingly being replaced in the 21st century
by dynamic and dimensional approaches that emphasize
variability of course and the possibility of
recovery. The aim of this presentation is to outline
the contemporary understanding of the clinical
course of schizophrenia, including the role of early
interventions, negative and cognitive symptoms,
as well as the impact of new therapeutic and digital
approaches. In recent decades, there has been
substantial progress in the development of antipsychotics,
with the goal of increasing efficacy and
reducing side effects. The most advanced drugs today offer more precise action on neurotransmitter
systems and better tolerability. The focus
is no longer only on symptom control but also on
quality of life, functional recovery, and an individualized
approach. Digital monitoring of treatment
and the application of artificial intelligence (AI)
in the treatment of schizophrenia are among the
fastest-growing areas of modern psychiatry. The
aim of these technologies is not to replace the psychiatrist
or psychotherapy, but to enable earlier
recognition of symptom exacerbation, better adherence
to treatment, and a more personalized approach
to care. AI and digital treatment monitoring
have considerable potential in the treatment
of schizophrenia, particularly for: early detection
of relapse, improving medication adherence, continuous
symptom monitoring, and personalization
of treatment. In conclusion, schizophrenia is
now viewed as a disorder with the potential for
functional recovery given timely and integrated
care. Contemporary data show that a substantial
proportion of patients can achieve remission and
functional recovery. The most advanced drugs for
the treatment of schizophrenia represent a significant
improvement over older therapies. However,
these technologies currently function best as an
adjunct to standard psychiatric care, rather than
as its replacement. The focus of modern psychiatry
has shifted toward functional recovery and
quality of life.
Keywords
schizophrenia; clinical course; recovery; negative symptoms; digital psychiatry
Hrčak ID:
352263
URI
Publication date:
15.6.2026.
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