what is psychosis?
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| what is psychosis? |
Psychosis is not about hallucinations. But you’re
experiencing something unusual and dangerous to your thoughts, feelings,
emotions and ability to function. A person with psychotic symptoms could suffer
from delusions or hallucinations (also known as delusional disorder or
delusion). They would seem to see or hear things that aren’t real. Or maybe
they feel as though they know things that aren’t true. Their thinking patterns
become unbalanced. If you are having hallucinations, be sure they aren’t a side
effect of medications or your genetics. Some people with schizophrenia also
experience psychoses. In severe cases, hallucinations could cause physical
problems such as difficulty concentrating or walking.
Some medical conditions (such as bipolar disorder) can
cause both hallucinations and psychosis. This doesn’t mean that bipolar
disorder or major depression are “better” when it comes to being psychotic than
schizophrenia. People who have depression should still talk to a doctor if they
think they have psychosis, no matter what kind of hallucinations they’re
experiencing. Your doctor can make a diagnosis and treatment plan based on your
symptoms. For example, some people with paranoid schizophrenia also often have
social phobia. Because these disorders share many of the same medical symptoms,
most patients benefit from getting help for both illnesses.
Treatment And Management
Your psychiatrist may recommend medication if your mental
health is worsening. Depending on your levels of functioning, there are
different types of therapy that can help you learn problem solving skills. Even
small doses of antipsychotic drugs may improve your sense of reality and help
change the way you experience certain things or process information. Many
people with psychosis have a history of substance abuse. Antipsychotic
medicines can reduce relapses of alcohol or tobacco use for those with
substance dependence issues. Treatment options also include cognitive
behavioral therapy (CBT), antidepressants and group support groups. You can
find many resources online for helping and managing your condition. These
resources offer a variety of services including education, recovery, advocacy
and community involvement. If you’re already taking anti-depressants, your
physician may also prescribe them. In addition to talking to a medical
professional, your family and friends can also play an important role in your
care. Talk to close friends, loved ones and neighbors about any changes that
may have occurred and ask them what help they can give. Sometimes going outside
of your house will help. Try setting up a meeting place where you could go together,
even if only briefly. Also consider doing activities that involve two people.
While you do this, remember it’s okay to let go of feelings that might be
causing distress. At least as long as none of your concerns rise to concern.
You are allowed to have those conversations at times when you feel well. Often,
these discussions are less threatening than the daily battles of life with a
chronic illness. If there are signs that your anxiety or other condition is
starting another flare-up or causing you trouble, let your doctor know so he
can arrange testing or prescribe medication if necessary.
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