In 1932, Hjertén decided to return to Stockholm. But during packing she collapsed. She got to Sweden and was temporarily taken to the psychiatric hospital of Beckomberga with symptoms of schizophrenia. She recovered periodically, and in the following two years (1932–1934) Hjertén's artistry culminated in a crescendo, where, like one possessed, she made pictures that expressed strongly loaded feelings. She devoted herself to intensive painting, creating one picture a day, "the picture-book of her life", according to an interview in the Swedish art magazine "Paletten". Hjertén's paintings of this period are often characterized by menacing tones, growing storm clouds, and feelings of abandonment. Some paintings radiate horror while others give a warm and harmonious impression.