Neurologist warns that initial symptoms of schizophrenia can be easily overlooked, highlighting the importance of recognising early behavioural and perceptual changes to enable timely intervention.
Early schizophrenia can begin with subtle changes that are easy to miss, according to a report by RIA Novosti citing neurologist Ekaterina Demyanovskaya. She said people may become unusually suspicious, start looking for hidden meaning in ordinary events, or begin to interpret casual remarks and actions from others as personally directed at them.
Demyanovskaya also said these changes can come before more recognisable symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. She added that some people may notice unusual sounds, voices or other sensations that do not have an obvious real-world explanation.
The warning signs are not limited to perception. Cleveland Clinic and the US National Institute of Mental Health say early changes can include trouble concentrating, problems with memory and planning, sleep disturbance, irritability, reduced emotional expression and social withdrawal. The Washington State Health Care Authority similarly notes that early psychosis can show up through changes in speech, mood, thinking and day-to-day functioning.
Demyanovskaya said family and friends should pay attention if someone who was once sociable begins avoiding meetings, loses interest in familiar activities or develops unusual habits. She also pointed to neglect of appearance, odd or exaggerated behaviour, and in some cases aggression. Even so, both the Russian report and the medical guidance stress that individual symptoms do not by themselves mean schizophrenia, and only a qualified specialist can determine the cause.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
