Psychosis can feel overwhelming, both for the person experiencing it and for their loved ones. It involves a break from reality that may include seeing or hearing things that aren’t there, holding strong beliefs that others find unusual, or feeling confused and disconnected. While these symptoms can be frightening, it’s important to know that psychosis is treatable and that seeking help early can make a big difference. In this blog, we’ll break down what psychosis is, explore its possible causes and warning signs, and explain when it’s time to reach out for professional support. If you or someone you care about is struggling, you’re not alone—and help is available.
In This Blog:
- What is Psychosis?
- Common Causes of Psychosis
- Early Warning Signs to Watch For
- When to Seek Help
- Diagnosis and Treatment Options
- Living with Psychosis
What Is Psychosis?
Psychosis is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect how a person thinks, feels, and sees the world. Here are some common symptoms associated with psychosis:
Hallucinations
- Hearing voices or sounds that others don’t hear
- Seeing people, objects, or lights that aren’t really there
- Feeling sensations (like bugs crawling on the skin) without a physical cause
Delusions
- Strongly held false beliefs, even when there’s evidence to the contrary
- Paranoia (e.g., believing someone is spying or plotting against you)
- Grandiose beliefs (e.g., thinking you have special powers or are famous)
Disorganized Thinking
- Trouble organizing thoughts logically
- Jumping from one topic to another in conversation
- Speaking in a way that’s hard to understand
Disorganized or Abnormal Behavior
- Acting inappropriately or unpredictably
- Unusual movements or postures
- Difficulty performing daily tasks or routines
Emotional Blunting
- Reduced ability to express emotions
- Seeming emotionally flat or disconnected
Lack of Insight
- Unawareness that the experiences are not based in reality
- Denial of needing help or medical attention
Social Withdrawal
- Pulling away from friends, family, or activities
- Isolating oneself without clear reason
Cognitive Difficulties
- Trouble concentrating or following instructions
- Memory issues or slowed thinking
It’s important to know that psychosis doesn’t mean someone is “crazy” or dangerous. These are harmful myths that can make it harder for people to ask for help. Psychosis is a medical condition that can happen to anyone, and with the right care, people can manage their symptoms and live full, meaningful lives. Whether it’s brief or part of a longer-term mental health condition, early treatment can lead to better outcomes and a smoother path to recovery.
Common Causes of Psychosis
Psychosis can happen for many different reasons, and understanding the possible causes is an important step toward getting the right treatment. In some cases, psychosis is linked to a specific mental health condition, while in others, it may be triggered by medical issues, substance use, or extreme stress.
Mental Health Conditions
One of the most common causes of psychosis is a mental health condition. Conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder with psychotic features can all involve episodes of psychosis. In these cases, symptoms may come and go, or they may become more persistent without proper care.
Certain Medical Conditions
Medical conditions can also play a role. Issues such as brain injuries, neurological diseases like epilepsy or Parkinson’s, infections that affect the brain, and even autoimmune disorders can sometimes lead to psychotic symptoms. That’s why a full medical evaluation is important when someone is showing signs of psychosis.
Substance Use
Substance use is another major factor. Certain drugs, including LSD, methamphetamine, cocaine, and even high doses of marijuana, can trigger temporary psychosis, especially in those who are already at risk. Withdrawal from substances like alcohol or sedatives can also bring on psychotic episodes.
Stress or Trauma
Lastly, severe stress or trauma, such as the loss of a loved one, abuse, or a major life crisis, can sometimes result in a brief psychotic episode. While less common, these stress-induced cases are usually short-term and often resolve with support and rest.
Because psychosis can be caused by so many different things, it’s essential to get a thorough assessment to uncover the underlying issue and begin appropriate treatment.
Early Warning Signs to Watch For
Spotting the early signs of psychosis can make a big difference in getting timely help. These symptoms often start gradually and may be mistaken for everyday stress or changes in mood or behavior. However, paying attention to these signs—especially when they begin to interfere with daily life—can help prevent more serious episodes down the line.
Here are some common early warning signs of psychosis:
- Social withdrawal: Avoiding friends and family, spending more time alone, or losing interest in once-enjoyed activities.
- Unusual thoughts or beliefs: Expressing ideas that seem strange, paranoid, or irrational.
- Suspicion or paranoia: Feeling watched, followed, or that others are out to get them.
- Changes in perception: Hearing, seeing, or sensing things that others don’t (mild hallucinations).
- Disorganized thinking or speech: Jumping between unrelated topics, speaking incoherently, or struggling to express thoughts clearly.
- Difficulty concentrating: Trouble focusing, remembering things, or completing tasks at school or work.
- Emotional changes: Seeming flat, disconnected, or displaying emotions that don’t match the situation.
- Neglecting self-care: Not bathing, brushing teeth, eating regularly, or keeping up with hygiene.
- Drop in performance: Sudden decline in academic or job performance without a clear reason.
If you or someone you care about is showing several of these signs, it’s important to reach out for support. Psychosis is treatable, especially when caught early. Seeking help from a mental health professional in Tooele, UT can lead to faster recovery and a better long-term outlook.
When to Seek Help
Knowing when to seek help for psychosis can be life-changing. If you or someone close to you is showing signs of losing touch with reality, such as hearing voices, believing things that aren’t true, or acting in ways that seem confusing or out of character, it’s time to reach out. Early intervention offers the best chance of managing symptoms and preventing them from becoming more severe.
You don’t need to wait for a crisis to take action. Even mild symptoms, like increasing isolation, strange or paranoid thoughts, or difficulty thinking clearly, are worth discussing with a mental health professional. These signs can be early indicators of a more serious condition, and getting help early can improve outcomes dramatically.
Here’s when to consider seeking help:
- If symptoms are interfering with daily life, school, work, or relationships
- If someone seems confused, paranoid, or is hearing or seeing things that others don’t
- If thoughts or beliefs become increasingly bizarre or hard to understand
- If there’s a sudden change in behavior, mood, or personality
- If the person expresses thoughts of self-harm or harming others
If you’re ever unsure, it’s okay to start by talking to a primary care doctor or therapist. They can help determine what’s going on and refer you to the right resources. For family and friends, being supportive and encouraging your loved one to get help, without judgment, can make a world of difference. You don’t have to face this alone. Help is available, and recovery is possible.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Getting the right diagnosis is a crucial first step in treating psychosis. Because psychosis can be caused by a variety of medical, mental health, or substance-related issues, a mental health professional will typically begin with a comprehensive evaluation. This includes discussing symptoms, personal and family medical history, recent stress or trauma, and any drug or alcohol use. In some cases, additional tests, such as bloodwork or brain imaging, may be needed to rule out underlying medical conditions.
Once a diagnosis is made, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and helping the individual return to everyday life. Here are the most common treatment options:
Medication:
Antipsychotic medications are often the first line of treatment. They work by balancing brain chemicals to reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Finding the right medication and dosage may take time, but many people experience significant relief once stabilized.
Therapy:
Psychotherapy, especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can help individuals understand their experiences, cope with stress, and develop strategies for managing symptoms. Therapy also helps with improving communication, relationships, and self-confidence.
Support Services:
Case managers, social workers, and peer support groups can provide assistance with housing, employment, transportation, and connecting to community resources. These services help create a stable environment for long-term recovery.
Hospital Care:
If symptoms become severe or someone is at risk of harming themselves or others, a short stay in a hospital may be necessary to ensure safety and begin treatment in a controlled setting.
Family Education and Involvement:
Family members often play a key role in supporting recovery. Many mental health professionals offer education and counseling to help families better understand psychosis and learn how to provide meaningful, compassionate support.
Treatment plans are most effective when they’re personalized and include both medical and emotional support. With the right care, many individuals with psychosis go on to lead fulfilling, productive lives.
Living with Psychosis: Hope and Recovery
A diagnosis involving psychosis can feel frightening, but it’s important to remember that recovery is absolutely possible. Many people who experience psychosis, especially when caught early, can regain stability, manage their symptoms, and live rich, fulfilling lives. With the right treatment plan, supportive relationships, and community resources, individuals can recover not only their sense of self but also their confidence and purpose.
Living with psychosis often involves learning how to manage stress, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and stick with treatment. Medication and therapy can be powerful tools, but social support and self-care are just as essential. Building a daily routine, getting enough rest, eating well, and staying connected to trusted loved ones can all help reduce the risk of future episodes. Peer support groups can also provide a safe space to share experiences and feel less alone.
Recovery doesn’t mean being symptom-free—it means reclaiming control and building a meaningful life, even with challenges. With time, education, and support, many individuals learn to recognize early warning signs, avoid triggers, and strengthen their coping skills.
Conclusion
Psychosis can be deeply unsettling, but it is treatable and no one has to face it alone. Recognizing the signs, seeking early help, and building a strong support network are key steps toward healing and hope. If you or someone you care about is showing signs of psychosis, don’t wait to reach out. Early intervention can change the course of someone’s life for the better.
At Whole Mind TMS in Tooele, UT, we offer compassionate, expert care to help individuals manage complex mental health symptoms—including those related to psychosis. Contact us today to learn more about your treatment options and take the first step toward recovery.
