Psychosis is a mental illness that suggests a loss of touch with reality. Those with this illness perceive things that aren’t there, believe false ideas, and have disorganized thoughts and speech. Periods of psychosis are referred to as psychotic episodes. Psychotic episodes can be caused by certain drugs, or can occur briefly as a symptom of disorders such as Bipolar Disorder.
Additionally, those with the chronic condition Schizophrenia can experience psychosis for extended periods of time. Early intervention is essential for those experiencing a psychotic episode, as treatment in the condition’s initial stages can help halt or reverse the course of its development.
There is a huge stigma surrounding psychosis, which is harmful to recovering patients. Interestingly, a large amount of evidence shows that those who have internalized the stigma for their condition have a slower and less successful recovery. The same stigma also discourages people from getting needed treatment, which can lead to symptoms worsening.
Recognizing the Signs of Psychosis
Psychosis symptoms are broad in number and intensity. The core symptoms include:
