Understanding Psychosis

Summary

Michael, a college student, begins experiencing psychosis, which causes him to hear voices and believe strangers are following him. His friend Jasmine notices his distress but struggles to understand and help. The script explores the symptoms of psychosis, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thoughts. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing these signs, offering support, and encouraging individuals to seek help. Psychosis can be triggered by various conditions and is treatable through therapy, medication, and social support. The video provides guidance on how to assist those affected and highlights resources for help.

Takeaways

• 😀 Psychosis is a condition where a person loses touch with reality, leading to confusion and distress.
• 😀 Hallucinations (hearing voices, seeing things) and delusions (false beliefs) are common symptoms of psychosis.
• 😀 Disorganized thoughts, like unclear speech or nonsensical sentences, are also characteristic of psychosis.
• 😀 Psychosis can be triggered by mental health disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder) or medical conditions (e.g., brain injuries).
• 😀 Substance use or withdrawal can also lead to psychosis, highlighting the importance of understanding the root cause.
• 😀 Psychosis can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or culture.
• 😀 People with psychosis often cannot recognize that they need help, so it is important to approach them gently and without judgment.
• 😀 Encouraging individuals with psychosis to talk to a trusted professional (doctor, mental health specialist) is key to supporting their recovery.
• 😀 Psychosis can be treated with a combination of medication, therapy, and social support, helping individuals live fulfilling lives.
• 😀 Mental health support services, such as NYC Well, provide free, confidential, 24/7 support for those in need of help.
• 😀 Caregivers and friends should seek emotional support too, as witnessing psychosis can be distressing and confusing.

Q & A

What is psychosis?

Psychosis is a set of symptoms that impact a person's thoughts and behaviors, often leading them to lose touch with reality. It can involve hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thoughts.

What are the common symptoms of psychosis?

Common symptoms of psychosis include hallucinations (e.g., hearing voices or seeing things that aren't real), delusions (firmly held beliefs that are not true), and disorganized thoughts (incoherent speech or behavior).

How do hallucinations manifest in psychosis?

Hallucinations in psychosis can be auditory (hearing things that aren’t there), visual (seeing things that aren't present), or even involve other senses such as smell or touch.

What are delusions, and how do they affect someone experiencing psychosis?

Delusions are strongly held beliefs that are not based in reality. In psychosis, individuals may believe things that seem entirely real to them, such as thinking others can hear their thoughts or that they are in danger, even when these beliefs are unfounded.

Why is culture important when identifying delusions in psychosis?

Culture can influence how delusions are expressed. What may be seen as an unusual or unrealistic belief in one culture may be considered normal or accepted in another.

Can someone with psychosis recognize their symptoms?

Many people with psychosis may not be aware of or recognize that they are experiencing symptoms. Others might feel their symptoms have a positive impact on their lives, although most find psychosis to be distressing.

What medical conditions can trigger psychosis?

Psychosis can be triggered by medical conditions such as a stroke, traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, or cysts. It can also occur as a side effect of drug and alcohol use or withdrawal.

What mental illnesses are associated with psychosis?

Psychosis is commonly associated with serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Schizophrenia always includes psychosis, while the other conditions may include psychosis during certain phases of the illness.

How should someone approach a person experiencing psychosis?

If you suspect someone is experiencing psychosis, it’s important to approach them gently and with care. Avoid dismissing their delusions or hallucinations. Instead, encourage them to seek help from a trusted person, such as a doctor or mental health professional.

What are the treatment options for psychosis?

Treatment for psychosis typically involves medication, therapy (such as talk therapy), and social supports. With the right interventions, psychosis can often be managed, and individuals can lead fulfilling lives.