What early signs of relapse should a nurse educate a relative of a client with schizophrenia about?

Unkempt appearance is one of the early signs of relapse in a client with schizophrenia. This can manifest as neglecting personal hygiene, wearing dirty clothes, or an overall disinterest in personal grooming. These changes often reflect a deterioration in the individual's mental state and can indicate that they are struggling to cope with daily life. Recognizing this sign is crucial for relatives, as it may prompt them to seek help or intervene before the situation escalates.

While social engagement can sometimes indicate improvement in a person's condition, increased activity and excessive talking may not always correlate directly with relapse. Instead, these behaviors could be part of an active phase or even indicate a period of stability, depending on the context. Providing information on unkempt appearance empowers relatives to notice subtle changes that might signal a need for intervention or increased support for their loved one.