In the case of schizophrenia, it is argued that if patients
learn basic facts about schizophrenia and its management,
they will be able to make informed decisions about their
care (Atkinsonet al. 1996). Second, if they know how to
recognize and appropriately manage early warning signs
of relapse and develop a plan to respond, patients can
learn to prevent relapse. Third, once patients are taught
coping skills, they can use these to deal with persistent
symptoms, the effects of which should become evident in
terms of relapse and re-hospitalization.