Background
Delays in help‐seeking for anxiety are common; however, earlier interventions improve long‐term outcomes. This holds importance for high schizotypes since anxiety relates to psychotic symptom development. The study investigated whether schizotypal traits and anxiety itself influence help‐seeking behaviour.
Methods
A non‐clinical student sample (N = 800) completed the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale and General Help‐Seeking Questionnaire, vignette version online.
Results
Recognizing another's help need was associated with lower anxiety scores. A trend was observed between lower schizotypy scores and better recognition of self‐need for help. Actual help‐seekers (N = 163) had significantly higher schizotypy and anxiety scores than non‐help‐seekers.
Conclusion
Schizotypal traits independently contribute to delays in help‐seeking for anxiety. Approaching informal help sources whom also have anxiety symptoms can delay formal help‐seeking, unless they have sought help themselves.