Different phases of schizophrenia have different treatment goals

According to the American Psychiatric Association guidelines on the treatment of schizophrenia, the goals of treatment are adapted to the stage of the illness.^{[Lehman et al., 2010]}

Acute phase
The goals of treatment during the acute phase of a psychotic exacerbation are to prevent harm, control disturbed behaviour, reduce the severity of psychosis and associated symptoms (e.g., agitation, aggression, negative symptoms, affective symptoms), determine and address the factors that led to the occurrence of the acute episode, effect a rapid return to the best level of functioning, develop an alliance with the patient and family, formulate short- and long-term treatment plans, and connect the patient with appropriate aftercare in the community.^{[Lehman et al., 2010]}

Stabilisation phase
During the stabilisation phase, the aims of treatment are to sustain symptom remission or control, minimise stress on the patient, provide support to minimise the likelihood of relapse, enhance the patient’s adaptation to life in the community, facilitate the continued reduction in symptoms and consolidate remission, and promote the process of recovery.^{[Lehman et al., 2010]}

Stable phase
Treatment during the stable phase is designed to sustain symptom remission or control, minimise the risk and consequences of relapse, and optimise functioning and the process of recovery.^{[Lehman et al., 2010]}

Reference:
Lehman AF, Lieberman JA, Dixon LB, et al.; American Psychiatric Association: steering committee on practice guidelines. Practice guideline for the treatment of patients with schizophrenia, second edition. Am J Psychiatry 2004; 161 (2 Suppl.): 1–56.