2. A PSYCHOTIC EPISODE OCCURS IN FOUR PHASES:

1. Premorbid Phase - The period in time prior to the onset of symptoms.
2. Prodrome - Early signs of psychosis may occur but are frequently vague and hardly noticeable. There may be changes in the way individuals describe their feelings, thoughts, and perceptions. Features of the prodrome may include:
   
   
   • Reduced concentration, attention
   • Reduced drive and motivation, lack of energy

   

   from http://www.zwani.com/graphics/smiley_moods/images/depressed.gif

   • Depressed mood
    
   • Sleep disturbance
   • Anxiety
   • Social withdrawal
   • Suspiciousness
   • Deterioration in role functioning
   • Irritability




from http://en.clipart-fr.com/data/gif/Animals-1/animated_gif_animals_0353.gif


3. Acute - Psychotic symptoms, including delusions and hallucinations, are experienced.
4. Residual or Recovery - Psychosis is treatable and most people recover, either partially or fully.