What is a Psychotic Break?
Psychosis, itself, is not a disease or disorder, rather it is a symptom or group of symptoms. An episode of psychosis refers to a break from reality, also known as a psychotic break. Forbes explains in detail that a psychotic break means “losing contact with reality, such as hearing, seeing, tasting, smelling, or feeling something that has no external correlate (i.e., hallucinations) or believing something to be true that is false, fixed, and fantastic (i.e., delusions) or being unable to sequence one’s thoughts or control a flight of ideas that becomes increasingly tangential (i.e., thought discord), or emotions wildly inconsistent with external reality (such as catatonia, the wild flights of someone in a manic episode, or a complete absence of affect).” There are a variety of reasons an individual may experience psychosis. Exposure to extreme stress, trauma and/ or substance abuse could induce psychosis. There are also certain psychiatric illnesses where psychosis is a common symptom (e.g. schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, etc.).
SYMPTOMS
Psychotic breaks most commonly include three main symptoms, which are hallucinations, delusions and confused or disturbed thoughts. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provide more explicit examples of a psychotic episode, which could include:
Problems with memory
Unusual behavior
Disorganized thinking
Speaking in a way that others are unable to comprehend
Disorientation
Indecisiveness
Changes in energy level
Weight fluctuation
Altered sleeping habits
Anxiety
Withdrawal from family and friends
Some individuals that experience a psychotic break will only have a single episode in their lifetime, while others may have more frequent occurrences. It is important to note that symptoms can change, and individuals with recurring episodes could experience a unique set of symptoms each time.
There are a variety of treatment options available for individuals that experience psychosis. Due to the fact that psychosis manifests as a symptom of something else, it is important to treat not only the symptom, but also the larger issue. Often individuals who receive treatment during their first episode of psychosis are more likely to have a hastier recovery process as well as a reduced risk of experiencing subsequent episodes of psychosis.
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.