What is psychosis?
Psychosis is a mental health condition. People who experience psychosis are likely to encounter symptoms including distorted thoughts, perceptions and emotions. This can include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that others don’t), delusions (strongly held false beliefs) and disorganised thinking.
Symptoms of psychosis
It’s often said that people with psychosis lose contact with reality, as their hallucinations and delusions often seem real enough that they no longer see the world the way most people do. They might begin hearing voices which tell them to do things or act in a certain way. They may experience paranoia and feel threatened by people or things which are no threat to them.
Types of psychosis
There are different types of psychosis, one of the most known is schizophrenia, which has many of the symptoms described above. Schizophrenia has been given a pretty rough treatment in popular culture, often being depicted as making people violent and dangerous. Whilst the condition can lead to violent behaviour, most people with schizophrenia are not any more violent or dangerous than anyone else. However, it is a serious condition that can be very unhealthy for those who have it. Learn more about schizophrenia here.
Psychotic episodes
Psychotic experiences can last for a few days or weeks at a time and may continue to recur if left untreated, but the good news is schizophrenia and other types of psychosis can be treated and it is possible to recover. Living with psychosis and managing psychotic symptoms is possible with treatments including therapy such as CBT and antipsychotic medication.
Psychosis and mental health
Have a look around our articles on psychosis and mental health in general. Remember, if you need someone to talk to our friendly team is always just an email or phone call away. Get in touch with The Mix today for free, non-judgemental support. You can talk to us about anything and in complete confidence. You can even talk to us anonymously if you prefer.
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