Psychosis

What is psychosis?

Psychosis is a mental health condition that causes you to loose touch with reality. During a psychotic episode you may experience hallucinations and/or delusions - see, hear, smell or believe things that are not real and do not exist.

What causes psychosis?

Psychosis is caused by a serious mental illness, extreme stress, trauma, misuse of illegal drugs and it can also be the result of a physical illness (like a severe infection).

What are the symptoms of psychosis?
The classic signs and symptoms of psychosis are: (information sourced from Medical News Today).
Hallucinations - hearing, seeing, smelling (olfactory hallucinations) or feeling things that do not exist
Delusions - false beliefs, especially based on fear or suspicion of things that are not real
Disorganization - in thought, speech, or behaviour
Disordered thinking - jumping between unrelated topics, making strange connections between thoughts
Catatonia - unresponsiveness
Difficulty concentrating

The milder, initial symptoms of psychosis might include:
Feelings of suspicion
General anxiety
Distorted perceptions
Depression
Obsessive thinking
Sleep problems

What is the treatment for psychosis?

Medications called antipsychotics are an important part of treatment. Many people find talking therapy helpful also.

To read Cassie's experiences with psychosis click here.

If you think you or someone you know may be suffering from psychosis professional advice should be sought.

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