Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Unusual Experiences Check-In?
An 18-question self-reflection tool that takes about 4 minutes and looks at patterns of unusual perceptions, disorganized thinking, suspiciousness, social withdrawal, and everyday functioning. This is a self-reflection tool, not a clinical diagnosis. If you are struggling, talk to a licensed professional.
How accurate is this unusual-experiences self-check?
Its five question clusters, unusual perceptions, disorganized thinking, suspiciousness, social withdrawal, and everyday functioning, are structured after the Comprehensive Assessment of At-Risk Mental States (CAARMS), a research instrument used to study early risk states in clinical settings (Yung et al., 2005). It is useful for noticing a pattern worth discussing with a professional, but only a structured clinical interview with a licensed clinician can produce an actual diagnosis. It is not designed to predict outcomes for any one person.
How long does the Unusual Experiences Check-In take?
About 4 minutes for 18 questions across five clusters. You get an instant result with a plain-language tier (minimal, mild, moderate, or frequent unusual experiences).
What should I do if my result is high?
If your result suggests frequent unusual experiences, please reach out to a mental health professional soon. In the US, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). In the UK, call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or text SHOUT to 85258. If you are in immediate danger, or worried about acting on an unusual belief, contact your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room. This tool is not a diagnosis, a licensed professional can give you one.
How reliable is this check-in?
This is a self-reflection tool, not a diagnostic instrument. It is designed to help you notice a pattern and decide whether to talk to someone, not to grade, label, or measure anything with clinical precision. A real evaluation happens with a licensed professional, usually through a structured clinical interview.
Is this a replacement for therapy or medication?
No. This is a self-reflection tool intended to help you notice patterns worth discussing with a professional. It does not replace clinical evaluation, therapy, or medical treatment.