FePsy Basel
DE

Self-test: early warning signs of psychosis

The following 32 symptoms can help you check whether early warning signs of a developing psychosis are present. Answer each question with “True” or “Not true”.

The earlier a psychosis is recognised, the better the treatment options. If you are concerned about your own symptoms or those of someone close to you, it is never too early to seek professional advice — relatives are welcome too.

Important: This self-test is not a medical diagnostic tool and does not replace professional assessment. It originates from a completed research project and is intended for initial orientation only. If you are concerned, please contact the BEATS outpatient clinic or another healthcare professional.
  1. Question 1 of 32

    Increased sensitivity, more easily moved

  2. Question 2 of 32

    Over-sensitivity, more easily hurt or upset

  3. Question 3 of 32

    Irritability

  4. Question 4 of 32

    Being short-tempered

  5. Question 5 of 32

    Nervousness, feeling tense

  6. Question 6 of 32

    Disturbed sleep

  7. Question 7 of 32

    Lack of energy, drive, initiative or interest

  8. Question 8 of 32

    Suspiciousness

  9. Question 9 of 32

    Anxiety

  10. Question 10 of 32

    Feeling depressed

  11. Question 11 of 32

    Blunted emotions

  12. Question 12 of 32

    Pronounced mood swings

  13. Question 13 of 32

    Difficulties concentrating

  14. Question 14 of 32

    More easily distracted

  15. Question 15 of 32

    Lower level of resilience

  16. Question 16 of 32

    Changes in interests (e.g. unusual interest in religion and supernatural matters)

  17. Question 17 of 32

    Changes in perception (e.g. hearing, seeing, smelling or tasting unusual things)

  18. Question 18 of 32

    Relating events to oneself

  19. Question 19 of 32

    Feeling observed, harmed or threatened

  20. Question 20 of 32

    Feeling controlled or influenced by others

  21. Question 21 of 32

    Unusual difficulties with relationships

  22. Question 22 of 32

    Withdrawing from others, isolating oneself

  23. Question 23 of 32

    Changes in behaviour (e.g. loud monologues in public)

  24. Question 24 of 32

    Other people have mentioned changes in the way I speak (e.g. my speech has become difficult to understand)

  25. Question 25 of 32

    Marked decline in performance, possibly with difficulties at work or school

  26. Question 26 of 32

    Neglecting jobs and duties

  27. Question 27 of 32

    Professional decline

  28. Question 28 of 32

    Loss of job/dropping out of vocational training

  29. Question 29 of 32

    Increased problems with relationships (partner, family, work)

  30. Question 30 of 32

    Beginning to take drugs regularly (alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, opiates or tranquilizers)

  31. Question 31 of 32

    Previous psychiatric or psychological treatment

  32. Question 32 of 32

    Finally we would like to ask you some questions about your family. Are there any mental disorders in your family?