MENTAL HEALTH
May 16, 2024
By Befitbu Minfulness Desk
Psychosis Definition
Psychosis is a mental health condition marked by a detachment from reality, often involving hallucinations and delusions.
Causes
Psychosis can stem from genetics, brain chemistry, substance misuse, trauma, or medical conditions, often co-occurring with disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Early Signs
Symptoms include altered thinking, perception, and behavior, such as suspicion, difficulty concentrating, social withdrawal, or feeling disconnected.
Hallucinations
These sensory experiences, like hearing voices or seeing things, seem real but are created by the mind.
Delusions
Strong, false beliefs—like paranoia or grandiosity—persist despite evidence to the contrary.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional, including history review, assessments, and sometimes medical tests.
Treatment
Treatment combines antipsychotic medication to manage symptoms, therapy to address underlying issues, and support services.
Antipsychotics
Medications help alleviate symptoms by impacting brain neurotransmitters but may have side effects.
Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) challenges distorted thoughts, while family therapy and support groups offer additional support.
Early Intervention
Prompt recognition and treatment improve outcomes, preventing symptom progression and enhancing long-term prognosis.