Symptoms of psychiatric disorders rarely occur suddenly. In most cases, symptoms develop over time. Close friends and family members of people with psychiatric disorders may realize that something is wrong or not quite right before the disorder itself is recognized. Recognizing early warning signs and getting help may prevent the disorder from becoming serious and may even save a life. Common symptoms or early warning signs of psychiatric disorders include the following
Apathy or loss of initiative or desire to participate in any activity that was previously enjoyable including sex
Difficulties with concentration, memory, or logical thought and speech. These problems are hard to explain and are not caused by medical or physical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, menopause or stroke .
Dramatic sleep and appetite changes
Fear or suspiciousness of others or a persistent, strong nervous feeling
Heightened sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells or touch, or avoidance of over-stimulating situations
Illogical thinking typical of childhood but in an adult
Rapid or dramatic shifts in feelings or mood swings
Recent social withdrawal or loss of interest in others
Sense of unreality or a feeling of being disconnected from yourself or your surroundings
Uncharacteristic or peculiar behavior
Unusual drop in functioning, such as problems at school or work, quitting sports, failing in school, difficulty performing familiar tasks, or deterioration in personal hygiene
Unusual or exaggerated beliefs about personal powers to understand meanings or influence events
