When people are psychotic, their personality may change, they may have thought disorder, and they may exhibit some personality changes and changes in the quality and content of their thoughts (thought disorder), including hallucinations, delusions, paranoia and impaired insight.
Psychosis refers to a condition in which people are described as having a “loss of contact with reality.” People experiencing psychosis are described as psychotic.
It is not uncommon for people to have brief psychotic experiences at some time in their lives in the context of stress or grief. Serious psychosis often results in unusual or bizarre behaviour, problems in relationships, and difficulty coping with daily life.
Psychosis occurs in the context of a number of medical conditions, including central nervous system disease, disease or injury to other organs or organ systems, toxins, prescription medications, and substance use. Psychosis also occurs in the context of a number of psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression.
Treating Psychosis
Psychosis in the context of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and severe depression is treated with a variety of antipsychotic, mood-stabilizing medications and antidepressant medications. Antipsychotic medications are the most effective treatment for psychosis. However, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been demonstrated to be an effective adjunctive treatment for psychosis.
Because psychosis is usually a sign or symptom of a serious problem, including some serious medical problems, it is important to get a proper diagnosis from a physician, psychiatrist or psychologist. A proper and thorough assessment will allow the accurate diagnosis of a psychotic disorder and is the first step towards effective treatment.
