What psychological symptoms may indicate prodromal schizophrenia?

Social isolation is a key psychological symptom that often indicates prodromal schizophrenia. During the prodromal phase, which precedes the full manifestation of schizophrenia, individuals may start to withdraw from social interactions and relationships, displaying a marked decrease in their previous level of social engagement. This isolation can stem from various factors, including a growing sense of paranoia, difficulty in processing social cues, or simply a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities.

The prodromal phase is characterized by subtle behavioral changes and early signs of psychosis, and social withdrawal is one of the more common indicators that someone may be developing schizophrenia. This symptom can manifest before more overt symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions, emerge, making it a critical area of focus for early identification and intervention.

In contrast, the other symptoms listed, such as increased energy, euphoria, and hyperactive behavior, are not typically associated with the early stages of schizophrenia. Instead, those symptoms may align more closely with mood disorders or other mental health conditions, and are not representative of the withdrawn and often introverted behavior seen in individuals heading toward psychosis.