Stage 1 of psychosis, often called the prodromal phase, is the earliest warning period before full psychotic symptoms emerge. It typically lasts weeks to years and involves subtle, non-specific changes that signal rising risk without overt hallucinations or delusions. Recognizing this stage enables early intervention, which can prevent progression or reduce severity.

Key Symptoms

• Mild perceptual shifts: Unusual sensations, like sounds seeming louder or colors brighter, without clear hallucinations.
• Cognitive changes: Trouble concentrating, memory lapses, or racing/disorganized thoughts.
• Emotional/mood disturbances: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or social withdrawal.
• Behavioral signs: Reduced motivation, sleep/appetite changes, or avoiding friends/family.
• Attenuated psychotic experiences: Fleeting suspiciousness (e.g., feeling watched) or brief, questionable unusual beliefs.

These mimic stress, depression, or substance effects, so they're easily overlooked. About 20-40% of people in this stage develop full psychosis within 2-3 years, per longitudinal studies like the North American Prodrome Longitudinal Study (NAPLS).

Risk Factors

• Family history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
• Trauma, cannabis use (especially high-THC strains in adolescence), or urban upbringing.
• Age 16-30 peak onset.

Importance of Early Help

Seek a mental health professional for assessment tools like the Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes (SIPS). Interventions include CBT for psychosis risk, family support, stress management, or low-dose antipsychotics if needed. Early action improves outcomes: remission rates exceed 50% with prompt care, versus poorer prognosis in later stages.

If you notice these changes in yourself or others, consult a psychiatrist or crisis line immediately. Stage 1 is reversible with support don't wait for escalation.