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Pamphlet #20:
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Schizophrenia: First Warning
Signs
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Below is a list of warning signs that suggest the onset
of schizophrenia. It was developed by families who have a member with
schizophrenia. Some of the behaviour is within the range of normal responses
to situations. However, families felt that even with the mildest of symptoms
there was a vague, yet distinct, awareness that the behaviour was "unusual".
Social
withdrawal was observed by everyone. Most commented that their relative
had been a "good person, never causing any trouble". Seldom
had the person been socially "outgoing" during the formative
years.
- Excessive fatigue and sleepiness or an inability
to sleep
- Social withdrawal, isolation and reclusiveness
- Deterioration of social relationships
- Inability to concentrate or cope with minor problems
- Apparent indifference, even in highly important situations
- Dropping out of activities (skipping classes)
- Decline in academic and athletic performance
- Deterioration of personal hygiene; eccentric dress
- Frequent moves or trips or long walks leading nowhere
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Undue preoccupation with spiritual or religious matters
- Bizarre behaviour
- Inappropriate laughter
- Strange posturing
- Low tolerance to irritation
- Excessive writing without apparent meaning
- Inability to express emotion
- Irrational statements
- Peculiar use of words or language structure
- Conversation that seems deep but is not logical or
coherent
- Staring; vagueness
- Unusual sensitivity to stimuli (noise, light)
- Forgetfulness
WORLD FELLOWSHIP FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA AND ALLIED DISORDERS
124 Merton Street, Suite 507, Toronto, Ontario,
M4S 2Z2, Canada
© 1997-2003 by the World Fellowship for Schizophrenia
and Allied Disorders |