# What should I do if I suspect that someone I know is experiencing symptoms of psychotic disorders? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/maza-afal-iza-ashtabaht-fi-an-shakhsan-aarafuh-yuani-min-aaraad-al-idtirabat-al-zahaniyah Language: en Category: mental_health Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.301Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.301Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/maza-afal-iza-ashtabaht-fi-an-shakhsan-aarafuh-yuani-min-aaraad-al-idtirabat-al-zahaniyah If you suspect that someone you know is experiencing symptoms of psychotic disorders, it is essential to seek help from a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Early intervention reduces the duration of untreated illness, which is crucial because early treatment is often associated with better recovery outcomes [\[1\]](). Psychotic disorders are not merely a transient condition; they are a disorder of thought and perception that requires a precise diagnosis to rule out other underlying causes. ## Warning Signs and How to Observe Them A psychotic episode is often preceded by gradual changes in behavior and personality. It is essential to pay attention to such changes, which may not be obvious initially. Common psychotic symptoms include delusions (firmly held false beliefs, such as feeling that others are watching them or trying to harm them) and hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that others do not see or hear) [\[1\]](). In addition, the person may exhibit: - Difficulty thinking clearly or logically. - Noticeable social withdrawal and a preference for isolation. - A sudden decline in academic or occupational performance. - Neglect of self-care and personal hygiene. - Sleep disturbances and confused or incoherent speech. ## Approaching the Person and Seeking Help When speaking with someone you suspect is suffering from these symptoms, try to remain calm and supportive. Avoid arguing about the reality of what they see or hear; questioning their hallucinations may increase tension. Instead, focus on expressing concern for their safety and overall health. It is recommended to see a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a qualified psychologist, as they can conduct a comprehensive assessment [\[1\]](). If the initial diagnosis is unclear, it may be necessary to seek an evaluation at a multidisciplinary medical center, where a team of experts works together to ensure diagnostic accuracy and coordinate the appropriate treatment plan [\[3\]](). For more details on available therapeutic pathways, you can read our article on [Psychotic Disorders: Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and the Integrated Treatment Plan (Arabic)](). ## Intervening in Emergency Situations In some cases, a person with psychosis may act in a confused or unpredictable manner, which could pose a risk to their safety or the safety of others. If you observe threats of violence, suicidal thoughts, or behavior that endangers the person's life, do not wait. You must seek emergency assistance immediately or go to the nearest emergency center. Remember that the risk of violence and suicide decreases significantly once appropriate treatment begins [\[1\]](). Having a support network that includes family and professionals is the gold standard of care, as it helps monitor the condition and provides necessary support to prevent relapses and ensure compliance with the prescribed treatment plan, which may include antipsychotic medications or specialized support programs [\[1\]](). ## Medical references - [Understanding Psychosis]() - [Neuroleptic malignant syndrome]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/maza-afal-iza-ashtabaht-fi-an-shakhsan-aarafuh-yuani-min-aaraad-al-idtirabat-al-zahaniyah#answer