Psychosis

Originally posted as part of our PhD Stronger Together Module - Mental Health Conditions (December 2020).

This month's Stronger Together content is focused on Common Mental Health Conditions! Today we are talking about Psychosis:

Definition

Psychosis is characterized by a loss of touch with reality that may include “positive” symptoms (behaviors that aren’t typically present), negative symptoms, disorganized thinking, and motor abnormalities.

Types include schizophrenia, schizophreniform disorder, brief psychotic disorder, schizoaffective disorder, mood disorders with psychotic features, postpartum psychosis, and substance-induced psychosis.

Other possible causes of psychosis include sleep deprivation, drug use, and severe stress.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Positive symptoms: hallucinations, delusions

2. Negative symptoms: poor motivation, low emotional expression (apathy), social withdrawal, reduced speech, loss of interest

3. Disorganized thinking and speech: loose associations, tangentiality, & incoherence

4. Motor abnormalities: catatonia, motor agitation, child-like behavior, stereotyped repetitive movements, grimacing & echolalia

Stats, Demographics and Disparities

• At least 3% of the population experience psychosis at some point in their lives, although <1% are diagnosed with a psychotic disorder

• Psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia are often considered serious mental illnesses (SMI)

• Men and racial/ethnic minority individuals are more likely to be diagnosed with a psychotic disorder, particularly non-affective psychotic disorders

• Some psychosis symptoms may not be considered distressing or functionally impairing, particularly if tied to one’s cultural norms

Treatment and Care

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp)

• Social Skills Training (SST)

• Family Interventions (FI)

• Supported Employment/Education (SEE)

• Prescription medication

Resources

General Resources:

• International Society for Psychological and Social Approaches to Psychosis learning resources

• International Early Psychosis Association

• Early Intervention in Psychosis Virtual Resource Center

• Dealing with Psychosis Toolkit

• Early Assessment and Support Alliance

Apps:

• Schizophrenia Health Storylines

• ClinTouch SWL

• Silver Linings

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*The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, therapist or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.