Psychosis

Psychosis is a state in which people perceive, hear, or hold beliefs that aren’t real. Often, those experiencing psychosis are unaware that their experiences are not real and remain convinced of their authenticity. About 1,600 new cases of psychosis are reported in Scotland each year. 

Contrary to common beliefs, psychosis is not a separate mental disorder. It’s a symptom that can be related to different mental health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. The experience of psychosis varies in how long it lasts and how often it happens, from brief episodes to daily occurrences. 

Psychosis has two main symptoms: hallucinations and delusions. Hallucinations make individuals see things that aren’t there, while delusions make them believe false things. However, it affects people differently. Some may feel tired or anxious and have trouble with their daily routine. Others may experience positive internal feelings and even come up with creative ideas.

Myths about psychosis

Symptoms 

There are three main symptoms associated with psychosis: hallucinations, delusions, and disturbed patterns of thought. 

Hallucinations

Hallucinations involve one’s senses (sound, sight, touch, smell, and taste), particularly when someone perceives things that aren’t real. This could include:  

• Hearing voices in your head  
• Seeing people that aren’t there  
• Feeling someone touching you who is not there  
• Smelling something that others don’t  
• Tasting something despite not having food in the mouth  

Delusions

Delusions involve one’s beliefs, particularly when one’s beliefs are untrue. Some examples include:  

• Feeling like you are being constantly followed or monitored by someone  
• Thinking that you have supernatural powers or are a supernatural being  
• Believing in conspiracies 

Disturbed Thoughts

People with psychosis may have confusing and disturbing patterns of thought. This could include:  

• Jumbled or incoherent speech  
• Sudden thought interruptions  
• Memory problems  
• Difficulty taking in new information  

Causes

Psychosis can be linked to depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. This also extends to physical conditions such as syphilis, Parkinson’s disease, and hypoglycaemia. Studies have also shown that increased stress could lead to the triggering of psychosis. Even having a family member or relative with psychosis makes one more likely to develop psychosis.

A psychotic episode may be triggered by drug and alcohol abuse. Stopping drug or alcohol use suddenly after a long consumption period can also lead to psychosis. The drugs that could lead to psychotic episodes include, but are not limited to:

• Cocaine
• LSD
• Crystal meth
• MDMA

In rare cases, psychosis may develop as a side effect of a particular prescribed medication or as the result of a medication overdose.

Treatment

Treatment of psychosis typically includes antipsychotic medications, psychotherapeutic interventions, and assistance from social support networks.

Antipsychotic Medication

For individuals experiencing psychosis, the primary approach often involves prescribing antipsychotic medications. Additionally, your healthcare provider may consider offering antidepressants or medications designed to soothe the potential side effects of antipsychotic drugs.

When starting antipsychotic medication, your doctor will check your overall health, including your weight, blood pressure, and blood tests, to decide on the right medication and dosage.

It’s crucial to discuss medication choices with your doctor.

Therapy

Along with medication, people with psychosis often have therapy to help them understand their condition better.

One popular form of therapy is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which is a form of psychotherapy aimed at enhancing your understanding of your experiences and addressing any distressing or troubling thoughts and beliefs you may have. It focuses on connecting thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and behaviours. CBT provides tools to manage and reduce distress linked to the condition.

It’s OK if you’ve been recommended other types of therapy besides CBT, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Peer Support, or Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). The decision on which treatment to pursue typically depends on your particular requirements, preferences, and the severity of your symptoms. In some cases, a combination of therapies and treatments may be suggested to ensure comprehensive care and support for those experiencing psychosis.