Most Common Signs of Psychosis
The National Alliance of Mental Health (NIH) explains “psychosis is characterized as disruptions to a person’s thoughts and perceptions that make it difficult for them to recognize what is real and what isn’t.” Psychosis is not an illness rather it is the umbrella term denoting a set of specific psychological symptoms. Psychosis is not uncommon, as indicated by the National Institute of Mental Health, “approximately 100,000 young people experience psychosis each year…[and]…as many as 3 in 100 people will have an episode at some point in their lives.” Though psychosis can occur at any age, it most commonly manifests in young adults (e.g. late teenage years to mid-twenties). There is no clear, scientific explanation for why individuals develop psychosis. However, research suggests that certain risk factors could increase one’s susceptibility. According to National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) these can include genetic factors (e.g. individuals with a family history of psychotic disorder), biological factors (e.g. children born with the genetic mutation known as 22q11.2), illness (e.g. Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, brain tumors, etc.) and environmental factors.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
While psychosis can include a range of symptoms, it generally involves the presence of hallucinations, which are characterized by an inaccurate sensory perception occurring in the absence of outside stimuli and/ or delusions, which are characterized by steadfast beliefs in something that is not based in reality. There are a number of signs and symptoms that can present in an individual suffering from psychosis. Medical News Today provides the following examples of common signs and symptoms associated with psychosis:
Anxiety
Sleep disturbances (e.g. sleeping excessively or not sleeping enough)
Insomnia
Depression
Intense worry or fear
Inability to express feelings
Disorganized speech (e.g. erratically changing topics)
Suicidal ideation
Problems focusing
Neglecting self-care (e.g. lacking personal hygiene practices)
Lowered tolerance to stress
Paranoia
Social isolation
The combination of signs and symptoms exhibited by a person with psychosis will be distinct to each individual. Further, each psychotic episode has the propensity to hold unique characteristics, even when occurring under similar circumstances to the same individual. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and are likely to develop at varied speeds.
FOR INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. There is an entire network of professionals that are readily available to help and support you and your loved one throughout every step of the recovery process.
If left untreated, substance abuse, addiction, and/ or mental illness can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. We are always available to answer any questions, and are certainly happy to discuss how we might best be able to help in the recovery process.