When Should Someone Seek Help?
Schizophrenia tends to develop gradually. So it can be hard to pinpoint when behavioral changes start or whether they’re something you should worry about. Recognizing that you’re experiencing a pattern of disturbing behaviors can be a sign that you should speak with a doctor.
Symptoms might worsen, leading up to an acute episode of psychosis in this disorder. The tell-tale signs include:
- Difficulty telling reality from fantasy
- New difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
- Confused speech or trouble communicating
- Withdrawing socially
- Suspiciousness of or uneasiness with others
- A decline in self-care or personal hygiene
Even though none of these changes are concerning by themselves, if you or someone you care about are experiencing a number of these symptoms, you should contact a mental health professional.
It can be challenging for those with schizophrenia to want to get help, especially if they are experiencing symptoms such as paranoia. If you or your loved one is thinking of harming themselves, you should talk to someone who can help ASAP.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is an excellent source of help.
We hope this article has been helpful. For related reads, our site has many more interesting posts to choose from. We also recommend reading: 11 Signs of Depression in Seniors and What You Can Do About It
4 Responses
Is it possible to have a relationship with someone who has been diagnosed? This person is so Inteligent and is enjoyable to be around half the time, but then can turn on a dime into a complete jerk and make messes and damage things in my home, even stealing items. Until I read this article I had no idea that these behaviors are common. I don’t know what to do because I care dearly for this person, and we’re trying to have a relationship, but it’s no wonder why all of my best efforts have been dethwarted.
As far as I know he has been prescribed an anti-depressant and Xanax which he doesn’t take most days. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Didn’t see the 5 signs of Schizophrenia???
You did not discuss the onset of Schizophrenia beyond the 20’s for men and 30’s for women.
Developing Schizophrenia as the result of alcohol abuse, drug abuse, and/or traumatic events.
Informative and concise! I learned about schizophrenia way back in nursing school almost 50 years ago. But this article was very interesting to read.
Thank you!