What Are the Causes of Psychosis
Psychosis a term used that encompasses a set of mental health symptoms that is characterized by an impaired relationship with reality. Psychosis is a symptom that can occur in connection to a variety of sources, such as a psychological condition, a general medical condition or drug and/ or alcohol misuse. However, the precise cause for psychosis remains unknown. Research has indicated that psychosis is likely caused by an interaction between environmental and genetic factors. More specifically, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) identify the following factors as directly contributing to its development:
Genetics: individuals with a family history of psychosis (e.g. direct biological relative such as parent, sibling, grandparent, etc.) have an increased predisposition to developing psychosis
Trauma: exposure to trauma (e.g. sexual assault, natural disaster, death of a loved one, etc.) could trigger a psychotic episode
Substance use: the abuse of alcohol and/ or drugs (e.g. marijuana, amphetamines, etc.) can increase the risk of psychosis
Physical injury or illness: psychosis has been identified as a side effect of certain brain diseases (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, etc.), as well as not uncommon in the event of traumatic brain injuries, brain tumors and/ or stroke
Mental health conditions: psychosis can be a symptom of certain mental health disorders (e.g. bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, etc.)
Research has indicated that due to hormonal changes in the brain during puberty, teenagers and young adults are at increased risk of experiencing psychosis.
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of psychosis can vary in severity and duration. Medical News Today provides a list of common signs and symptoms of psychosis, which include the following:
· Hallucinations: sensations that appear to be real but are not
· Delusions: false beliefs that are not based in reality
· Disorganized thinking, speech, and behavior: making conversational connections that are illogical to others
· Catatonia: becoming unresponsive
· Unusual psychomotor behavior: makes unintentional physical movements (e.g. fidgeting, tapping, pacing, etc.)
During a psychotic episode, an individual may also experience mood changes, sleep problems, and/ or difficulty focusing. Some individuals will experience a single episode of psychosis in their lifetime, while others may experience multiple episodes. With each psychotic episode, the combination, severity, and duration of symptoms can present differently. An individual’s specific treatment plan will greatly depend on his or her unique needs. The most common treatment for psychosis will usually consist of a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
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.