Signs of psychosis in a loved one 

Every person’s experience with psychosis is unique and can change over time

However, there are several common signs of psychosis or psychosis risk that you may notice in your family member or friend, including the below.
 

 

Common symptoms that may indicate psychosis 

Unfamiliar thoughts or feelings

  • Believing that ordinary things in the environment have special meaning
  • Having difficulty organizing thoughts or finding the right words
  • Having ideas that seem strange, grandiose or illogical
  • Believing that others can read their mind or know what they are thinking
  • Thinking that other people are watching them or talking about them
  • Thinking they are not control of their own thoughts, ideas or actions

Sensory or perceptual changes​

  • Seeming confused about which events are real and which are imaginary
  • Hearing or seeing things that others do not, such as voices, shadows or images

Changes in typical routine

  • Withdrawing from and avoiding social activities and friends or family
  • Having difficulty concentrating, listening or reading
  • Losing interest in previously held activities or hobbies 

When I realized what my son was facing, I felt helpless. I wasn't sure what his diagnosis meant for his future or mine. The Path team gave me hope. For the first time, I felt like I had someone really fighting for my son, ensuring he would be able to return to his life.

Milana

Mother of Path Program participant

 

 

If someone you know has been having any of these experiences, it may be psychosis or, in the case of milder forms of these experiences, it may be a sign that they are at risk for developing psychosis.

This can be hard to figure out on your own, and the Path Program is here to help.  Contact us to discuss the changes you’ve noticed in your family member or friend.


Learn how the Path Program can help

View resources to help you support your loved one