Understanding Psychosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Jami Robinson
May 2
3 min read

Psychosis is a condition that significantly disrupts an individual’s connection with reality, leading to delusions, hallucinations, and unusual behaviors. While psychosis itself is not a standalone mental health disorder, it is a symptom often associated with underlying conditions such as depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Understanding psychosis and its causes is crucial for timely intervention and effective treatment.

What Is Psychosis?

Psychosis is characterized by a severe loss of contact with reality. Individuals experiencing psychosis may have difficulty distinguishing between what is real and what is not.

Common symptoms include:

Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs that are resistant to logic or evidence (e.g., believing they are being followed or have special powers).
Hallucinations: Perceiving sights, sounds, or sensations that aren’t actually present (e.g., hearing voices or seeing things that others cannot see).
Bizarre Behavior: Actions that seem unusual, erratic, or disconnected from reality.

What Causes Psychosis?

Experts agree that there is no single cause of psychosis. Instead, it typically results from a combination of factors, including:

Nervous System Dysfunction: Irregularities in brain function or chemistry
Physical Factors: Infections, brain injuries, or substance abuse
Emotional Stressors: Events such as the loss of a loved one or severe trauma
Underlying Disorders: Mental health conditions like schizophrenia, severe depression, or bipolar disorder

Psychosis can also be triggered by drug use or withdrawal, making thorough medical evaluation a critical part of diagnosis.

Diagnosing Psychosis

Diagnosing psychosis involves identifying the underlying cause. Physicians and mental health professionals use a combination of techniques to determine whether psychosis is related to a psychological condition or another medical issue.

These evaluations may include:

Medical Tests: Blood tests, drug screenings, or brain scans to rule out non-psychological causes
Psychological Assessments: Evaluations to identify specific mental health disorders linked to psychotic symptoms

What is Psychosis?

Psychological psychoses are differentiated from other forms by their lack of connection to physical conditions or substance use.

Treatment for Psychosis

The primary goal of treatment is to manage and control psychotic symptoms. Depending on the severity and underlying cause, treatment approaches may include:

Hospitalization

In severe cases or when individuals pose a risk to themselves or others, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure safety and provide intensive care.

Medications

Antipsychotic medications are often prescribed to regulate symptoms. These may be combined with other medications if the psychosis is linked to a coexisting mental health disorder.

Behavior Therapy

Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help patients and their families understand psychosis, develop coping techniques, and improve communication skills.

While therapy alone is rarely sufficient to control symptoms, it plays a critical role in addressing the underlying condition and supporting long-term recovery.

Finding Support

Living with psychosis or supporting a loved one who experiences psychotic episodes can be challenging. However, with proper treatment and support, individuals can achieve significant improvement and lead fulfilling lives.

At Caring Minds Mental Health, we provide comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Our compassionate team of professionals specializes in diagnosing and treating psychosis, offering medication management, therapy, and resources to help patients and their families navigate this journey.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of psychosis, reach out for help today. Early intervention is key to effective treatment and recovery.

McDonough Office: Call (678) 284-1008 or email customer.service@cmmhllc.com
Conyers Office: Email customerservice.conyers@cmmhllc.com

At Caring Minds, your mental health and well-being are our top priorities. Let us help you take control and rediscover hope.