Which symptom could indicate relapse in schizophrenia?

• A. Sleep disturbance
• B. Consistent academic performance
• C. Stable mood and energy
• D. Decreased paranoia

Answer: (A)

Relapse in schizophrenia is often signaled by a return or worsening of symptoms and a breakdown in daily functioning, and sleep disruption fits as an important warning sign. Sleep disturbance reflects increasing stress and dysregulation that can precede or accompany a resurgence of positive symptoms like hallucinations or paranoid thoughts, signaling that the illness may be becoming more active again. When sleep is poor or irregular, thinking and emotional regulation can deteriorate, making relapse more likely. In contrast, consistent academic performance indicates maintained functioning, not relapse. A stable mood and energy level suggests there isn’t a renewed depressive or negative symptom episode, and decreased paranoia points toward improvement rather than relapse. So sleep disturbance stands out as the symptom that could indicate relapse.