Understanding psychosis beyond a simple definition
- Yoon Shwe Yi Han
- Jun 27
- 4 min read
It will not be a far stretch to say the younger generations are bringing more awareness to mental health and its impact. Even so, it’s equally important to ensure that we use terminology thoughtfully and share accurate information.
Starting point
To set the stage for our discussion, let's start with a clear definition before delving into deeper meanings. The textbook definition refers it as a state of mind where an individual experiences a loss of contact with reality. It is also often characterized hallucinations, delusions and disorganized thinking or behaviors. However, it is important to note that psychosis is not a diagnosis in itself but rather a collection of symptoms.
Curious about the symptoms? Here’s what to keep an eye on!
Hallucination
This term is something many of us have heard of. Hallucination can manifest in various forms, including auditory, visual, tactile, and olfactory experiences. Our brain interprets external stimuli that aren’t actually present. For instance, an individual would hear voices that do not exist outside of their mind (auditory hallucination). These experiences can be fascinating yet complex, revealing the intriguing ways our minds work!
Delusion
Most of us have probably encountered the term "delulu" on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok. Delusion refers to false beliefs that persist even when there’s clear evidence to the contrary. For example, someone might think that others can read their mind. It’s important to note that individuals experiencing psychotic episodes often aren’t aware that their delusions and hallucinations aren’t real. This disconnect can make understanding and addressing these experiences quite challenging.
Disorganized thinking and speech
This symptom can significantly impact how individuals express their thoughts and communicate with others. It involves disturbed, confused, and disrupted patterns of thought. It can manifest as rapid, constant speech, sudden losses in the train of thought, or erratic speech patterns. We can observe individuals abruptly pausing in their activity or switching topics mid-conversation. These behaviors can make communication challenging and indicate underlying cognitive disruptions.
We can see psychotic episodes in individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, substance abuse as well as Alzheimer's disease, Lyme disease, stroke, brain tumor and so on.
What leads to this?
Understanding what leads to psychosis can be complex, as it often results from a combination of factors. Here are some key contributors that can help shed light on this condition:
Genetics - family history of psychosis
Chemical imbalance in brain
Substance use - cannabis, speed(amphetamine), MDMA(ecstasy), etc.
Severe head injuries - concussions, traumatic brain injuries, etc.
Psychological causes - bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc.
Is there prevention?
Psychosis can be quite unpredictable. While it’s not possible to reliably forecast who might experience these symptoms, there are proactive measures that can be taken to lower the risk. What strategies could be beneficial to reduce the likelihood of developing these symptoms or related conditions?
Use Safety Equipment: If someone is susceptible for psychosis, protection from head injuries is crucial, as such injuries can lead to brain damage and potentially trigger psychosis or similar symptoms.
Avoid Recreational Marijuana Use Early On: Research has linked heavy marijuana use during the teenage years and early adulthood to psychosis. Although there is some debate about whether it’s a direct cause or just a contributing factor, it’s important to be mindful of these risks. Making informed choices regarding substance use can be really helpful.
What is the treatment?
Treatment for psychosis will differ based on the underlying cause. If a specific mental health condition has been diagnosed, the treatment will be adjusted to fit that as well.
Antipsychotic medications are typically the first treatment recommended for psychosis. They help by blocking the effects of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which are chemicals that send messages in the brain. It is important to note that there are various types of antipsychotic medication, each with different side effects. So, it is crucial to collaborate with a healthcare provider to find the most effective option with the least side effects.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for psychosis helps individuals understand and reframe their experiences. It focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. A CBT therapist may help individuals explore different perspectives on what they’re going through. Through CBT, individuals can learn to challenge unhelpful beliefs and develop coping strategies.
Support programs and care play a crucial role in managing psychosis, especially when it’s linked to other conditions like alcohol or substance use disorders and personality disorders. Addressing these underlying issues can significantly reduce the impact of psychosis. These resources not only assist in managing psychosis but also promote overall well-being, making it easier to navigate daily life and improve functioning.
Inpatient treatment may be required in severe cases of psychosis, particularly when there is a risk of harm to oneself or others. This type of care takes place in a hospital or specialized facility, providing a safe environment for intensive monitoring and support. Inpatient treatment allows for close supervision, medication management, and therapeutic interventions aimed at stabilizing the individual and addressing acute symptoms effectively.
Together, these treatments foster a supportive and inclusive environment, helping individuals navigate their experiences with understanding and care. By combining different support methods, people can work toward recovery in a way that feels right for them, building resilience and a sense of control over their lives. It’s important for everyone to feel recognized and supported on their journey to wellness, ensuring they know they’re not alone in this process.
Sources
National Institutes of Health https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/understanding-psychosis#part_6515
Cleveland Clinic (2022) https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23012-psychosis#care-and-treatment
Better Health Channel (2019) https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/psychosis
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
