Psychosis
What Is Psychosis?
Psychosis refers to a collection of symptoms where a person experiences a disconnection from reality. According to the National Institute of Mental Health’s Understanding Psychosis Guide, psychosis can be a symptom of various mental health conditions or medical disorders, and early treatment is crucial for better recovery outcomes.
Signs and Symptoms
Psychosis typically involves four main categories of symptoms:
| Symptom Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Hallucinations | Hearing voices, seeing things that aren’t there, feeling sensations without cause |
| Delusions | False beliefs despite evidence to the contrary (paranoia, grandiosity) |
| Disorganized Thinking | Difficulty organizing thoughts, jumping between topics, making up words |
| Disorganized Behavior | Unpredictable actions, inappropriate responses, unusual postures or movements |
Early warning signs may include feeling that “something is off,” withdrawing from friends and family, decline in school or work performance, sleep disturbances, and changes in how one perceives the world.
What Causes Psychosis?
Psychosis results from a complex combination of factors rather than a single cause:
Mental Health Conditions: Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression, schizoaffective disorder
Medical Conditions: Brain tumors, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, HIV/AIDS, lupus
Substance Use: Cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines, LSD, alcohol withdrawal, prescription medication side effects
Genetic and Environmental: Family history, brain development differences, exposure to trauma or chronic stress
Other Triggers: Sleep deprivation, extreme stress, sudden illness or injury
For comprehensive information about causes, visit the NHS’s Psychosis Causes Guide.
How Is Psychosis Diagnosed?
Dr. Budhwar’s evaluation includes:
Comprehensive Assessment: Detailed psychiatric, medical, and psychosocial evaluation to rule out other causes
Mental State Examination: Assessment of symptoms, insight, and cognitive functioning
Medical Tests: Blood work, brain imaging (if indicated), and substance screening to exclude medical causes
Collateral Information: Input from family members and friends about behavioral changes
Standardized Tools: Rating scales to assess symptom severity and functional impact
Early diagnosis is critical, as studies show that reducing the duration of untreated psychosis leads to better long-term outcomes.
Treatment Options
Evidence-based treatment typically involves a multi-modal approach:
1. Antipsychotic Medications
Second-Generation Antipsychotics: Preferred first-line treatment (risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine) with fewer side effects
First-Generation Antipsychotics: May be used when newer medications are ineffective
Dosing Strategy: “Start low, go slow” approach, especially in first episodes
2. Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC)
The gold standard for first-episode psychosis includes:
Case Management: Intensive support and care coordination
Individual and Family Therapy: Psychoeducation and coping skills training
Supported Education/Employment: Assistance with school or work goals
Medication Management: Regular monitoring and adjustment
3. Psychological Therapies
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps distinguish reality from psychotic symptoms
Family Intervention: Education and support for family members
Social Skills Training: Improving interpersonal functioning
Refer to the NHS’s Psychosis Treatment Guidelines for detailed treatment information.
Self-Help Strategies
Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications consistently as directed
Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and avoid high-stress situations
Sleep Hygiene: Maintain regular sleep schedule and aim for 7-9 hours nightly
Substance Avoidance: Eliminate alcohol and recreational drugs that can trigger symptoms
Support Network: Stay connected with family, friends, and support groups
Warning Sign Recognition: Learn to identify early symptoms and seek help promptly
When and How to Seek Help
If you or someone you know experiences hallucinations, delusions, or significant changes in thinking or behavior, seek immediate professional help:
Book an appointment with Dr. Budhwar
Contact us for urgent concerns
Visit our home page for additional resources
Early intervention within the first few months of symptom onset provides the best chance for recovery and prevents long-term disability.
Psychosis is treatable. With prompt diagnosis, appropriate medication, and comprehensive support services, most people can achieve significant symptom improvement and return to meaningful, productive lives.