Recognising change
Knowing when to seek help matters more than knowing the exact diagnosis.
Start with what has changed
Look for a change from the person’s usual pattern in mood, sleep, energy, thinking, behaviour, relationships, self-care, work or studies. Consider duration, severity, distress, loss of functioning and risk.
Signs that deserve professional assessment
- Symptoms persist, recur or steadily worsen.
- Everyday responsibilities, relationships or self-care are affected.
- Sleep or appetite changes markedly.
- Fear, low mood, irritability or suspiciousness becomes difficult to manage.
- Alcohol or drug use increases or causes harm.
- Family members notice a substantial change.
- Previous treatment is no longer helping or causes concerning adverse effects.
Urgent warning signs
Obtain urgent help for suicidal thoughts with intent or a plan, recent self-harm, threats or acts of violence, severe agitation, rapidly worsening confusion, inability to eat or drink, extreme drowsiness, suspected overdose, seizures, severe withdrawal symptoms, or behaviour that creates immediate danger.
Could symptoms have a physical cause?
Yes. Infection, endocrine or neurological illness, sleep problems, medicines, intoxication and withdrawal can affect mood, thinking and behaviour. Sudden symptoms, altered consciousness, fever, seizures or new neurological signs require prompt medical assessment.
How to support someone
Choose a calm setting, describe specific changes without blame, listen, encourage assessment and offer practical help with appointments. Do not argue about unusual beliefs, promise secrecy when safety is at risk, or leave a high-risk person alone.
Clinical review status
Dr. Vikhram RamasubramanianMD (General Medicine), MD (Psychiatry)
Consultant Psychiatrist, Ahana Hospitals.
Clinical review: 07 September 2026
Next review: September 2027
Need help deciding what to do next?
Speak with the Ahana Hospitals care team for guidance based on your needs and the services currently available.
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