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Warning-sign checks

Paranoid personality disorder: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency help if:

    • You intend or plan to harm yourself or someone else
    • You are preparing to act on a belief that someone must be confronted or attacked
    • You have access to a weapon and feel unable to stay in control
    • You cannot keep yourself or another person safe

    Call your local emergency number or crisis service, or go to the nearest emergency department.

    If you are supporting someone in immediate danger, avoid arguing about whether their beliefs are true.

    Keep a safe distance, speak calmly, and contact emergency services.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent, same-day help if your suspiciousness suddenly becomes much stronger, you begin hearing or seeing things other people do not, or you feel unable to care for yourself.

    A rapid change may have another cause that needs prompt assessment, including substance use, medication effects, severe sleep loss, or a physical illness.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine mental health appointment if mistrust or suspicion is repeatedly affecting your relationships, work, sleep, or willingness to receive care.

    Support is also appropriate if you are becoming isolated or experiencing depression, anxiety, or harmful substance use.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Paranoid personality disorder. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.