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By Mayo Clinic staffThere's no sure way to prevent schizophrenia. However, early treatment may help get symptoms under control before serious complications develop and may help improve the long-term outlook. Sticking with your treatment plan can help prevent relapses or worsening of schizophrenia symptoms. In addition, researchers hope that learning more about risk factors for schizophrenia may lead to earlier diagnosis and earlier treatment.
For people at increased risk of schizophrenia, taking proactive steps such as avoiding illicit drug use, reducing stress, getting enough sleep and starting antipsychotic medications as soon as it's necessary may help minimize symptoms or prevent them from worsening.