Psychosis is a serious mental health condition that affects a person’s emotions, thoughts, and perceptions in life. It can cause distress and disruption in the individual’s life, often leading to a loss of touch with reality. Being able to understand psychosis and its symptoms, causes and the available treatments is essential for providing better mental health care and promoting recovery.
Whether it’s related to substance abuse or a standalone mental health disorder, effective psychosis treatment is vital for those who struggle.
What is Psychosis?
Psychosis is a condition that impairs a person’s ability to perceive and interpret reality properly. Those with psychosis may experience delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized thinking, and these symptoms can be frightening and confusing.
Although psychosis is not a diagnosis in itself, it’s often a symptom of a more significant mental health issue, such as schizophrenia, severe depression, or bipolar disorder. It can also be induced by substance abuse and it may occur during periods of withdrawal or intoxication.
Common Symptoms of Psychosis
The symptoms of psychosis can vary depending on the underlying cause, but it generally falls into two categories: positive and negative symptoms.
Positive Symptoms
- Hallucinations. False perceptions of reality, such as hearing voices that aren’t there or seeing things that are not there.
- Delusions. Strongly held beliefs that are not based in reality, such as thinking one has special powers or is being persecuted by others.
- Disorganized thinking. Psychosis can make a person feel like they have trouble organizing their thoughts or speaking coherently. They may jump between topics or have difficulty following a conversation properly.
Negative Symptoms
- Social withdrawal. A person can isolate themselves from others, avoiding interactions with family, friends, or coworkers.
- Lack of motivation. An individual with psychosis may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.
- Reduce emotional expression. A lack of facial expression or voice tone, even in difficult situations where emotional reactions are expected.
Positive and negative symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, and they can be debilitating.
Causes of Psychosis
- Mental health disorders. Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other conditions like severe depression are among the most common causes of psychosis in these cases. This psychosis may occur during a manic episode, depressive episode, or as part of the disorder’s progression.
- Substances. Certain drugs, including alcohol, stimulants, marijuana, and hallucinogens can induce psychosis. Withdrawal from these substances can do the same thing. People struggling with substance use disorder may experience psychosis as a result of intoxication or withdrawal, and that complicates their treatment process.
- Neurological conditions. Brain tumors, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease are all conditions that can lead to psychotic symptoms. Neurodegenerative disorders can impact brain function and result in delusions or hallucinations.
- Genetics. Family history can also play a role in psychosis risks, as certain genetic factors may make an individual more susceptible to developing conditions like schizophrenia.
Treatment for Psychosis
Early intervention is key for the treatment of psychosis. It involves a combination of medications, support from loved ones, and therapies, and for individuals struggling with psychosis related to substance abuse, effective addiction treatment is crucial for recovery.
- Antipsychotic medications. These medications are commonly used to treat psychosis by targeting the symptoms of delusions, disorganized thinking, and hallucinations. The medications can help regulate the brain’s neurotransmitters and alleviate the symptoms, although they can come with side effects that require management.
- Psychological therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help individuals to identify and challenge delusions or distorted thoughts. For individuals with Co-occurring substance use disorders, therapy programs that combine addiction treatment with mental health care can offer a holistic approach.
- Hospitalization. In some cases where safety is a concern, hospitalization may be necessary. A safe, structured environment allows healthcare providers to monitor symptoms, administer and balance medications, and provide supportive care.
- Personal support networks. Social support from family, friends, and mental health professionals plays a crucial role in the recovery process for psychosis. Peer support groups can provide emotional support and guidance where necessary.
- Addiction Treatment. For those whose psychosis is linked to substance abuse, addressing the root cause of the addiction is essential. Addiction treatment programs offer a comprehensive approach to the management of both mental health and addiction at the same time.
Psychosis is a serious mental health condition that requires intervention and proper treatment. Regardless of whether it’s caused by a mental health disorder, substance abuse, or another underlying condition, recognition of the symptoms is vital as early as possible.
For those struggling with substance use and mental health issues, seeking treatment at a comprehensive addiction treatment center can help address both concerns, providing a path to lasting recovery and better mental health.
For more information on addiction treatment options, visit Evolve Indy.