The word psychosis describes a range of mental health disorders that cause marked changes in thoughts, with some loss of contact with reality. Symptoms of psychosis include hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorders such as schizophrenia.

Suppose you think you or someone you know might have symptoms of psychosis. In that case, it is essential to see a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This article will look at the different types of diagnoses for psychosis, the symptoms that might be present, as well as the treatments available.

If you or someone you know suffers from a psychotic disorder, do not hesitate to call or visit Hanei Health Solutions in Gaithersburg and Catonsville, MD. Our friendly staff can assist with questions and arrange a confidential, anonymous assessment.

Types Of Psychotic Disorder

Psychosis is related to several disorders, as noted below.

Schizophrenia: This is a long-term disorder with changes in reality, and the person suffers from hallucinations, delusions, thought disorders, and negative symptoms. These include withdrawal and emotional blunting.

Bipolar disorder: An extreme form of depression with severe mood swings. The person experiences episodes of mania, hypomania, and depression. There may be symptoms of psychosis depending on the type.

Schizoaffective disorder: Schizoaffective disorder is a condition where there is a combination of the symptoms of schizophrenia and mood disorder. For example, the person may experience paranoia with hallucinations and delusions.

Catatonia: This is a rare mental health condition with symptoms that include catatonic behavior and a significant reduction in speech or movement. Catatonia is sometimes related to psychosis, mainly if it involves hallucinations.

Paraphrenia: This type of condition involves symptoms of paranoia but not hallucinations. The person might experience delusions and delusional misidentification but not auditory or visual hallucinations.

Delusional Disorder: Delusional disorder is a mental illness that causes the person to suffer from hallucinations and delusions. The person may experience paranoia, visual or auditory hallucinations, and other altered states of reality.

Substance use disorder: Psychosis can also be a side effect of substance use disorder. The person may experience hallucinations or delusions due to the impact of the substance being used or withdrawal from the substance.

Suppose you or someone you know is experiencing these conditions. You can always count on Hanei Health Solutions in Gaithersburg and Catonsville, MD, to assist you. Our professional staff is familiar with the best practices in the mental health field. They will work with you to implement the best treatment available. Call today! (443-978-1330)

Symptoms

A range of symptoms may be presented in someone who has psychosis. These may include the following:

Hallucinations are things that the person sees or hears in the absence of any stimulus. It may include seeing figures, objects, or animals which are not there. Hallucinations can manifest as hearing voices, but these are not echoes or sounds due to an external source.

Delusions: Delusions are false beliefs, and the person is convinced that these beliefs are true. These beliefs often cause distress in the person, and they will usually be held with firm conviction. For example, people may believe they are famous, which may cause them distress when other people do not recognize them.

Other possible symptoms of psychosis include:

• Mood swings

• Inability to express emotions

• incoherent speech

• Confused thought

• Strange and dangerous behavior

• Unusual movements

• Loss of interest in personal hygiene

• Loss of interest in daily activities

Individuals that are experiencing psychosis are referred to as having a psychotic disorder. It is where the symptoms are not temporary but continue for an extended period. In addition, the symptoms will impair the person’s ability to function and may cause considerable distress.

Hanei Health Solutions in Gaithersburg and Catonsville, MD, will help you or your loved one get the treatment you need. Don’t hesitate to contact or call us at 443-978-1330.

At Hanei Health Solutions, everyone should have access to comprehensive mental health treatment. We always work with our clients to develop a treatment plan that works for them. Whether you need medication or therapy, we’re here to help!

Causes

There’s no one clear cause of psychotic disorders. The causes may be multifactorial and depend on the individual. Some reasons may include genetics, brain chemistry, and environment or experiences.

In genetics, there is an increased risk in people with close family members, especially a parent or sibling with a psychotic disorder. However, the same genetic pattern may not be passed on to the person with symptoms.

Brain chemistry is also thought to play a role in schizophrenia which can lead to changes in dopamine and other neurotransmitters. These changes are thought to affect parts of the brain responsible for perception and movement, which can lead to experiencing hallucinations.

Treatment For Psychosis

Most Psychotic disorders are treated with medications, therapy, and support. These forms of treatment work together to relieve the symptoms and improve the person’s ability to function in their daily life. The disorder’s severity will determine what treatment is best for that person.

Medication

Medication is one of the primary methods of treating psychotic disorders. Medications can help to relieve the symptoms and reduce the frequency of relapses. There may be several medications that are used based on individual needs. However, they all serve to correct imbalances in brain chemistry.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is another crucial part of treating psychotic disorders. It includes individual therapy and group therapy, as well as family education. The family can also be educated to help them recognize the signs that their loved one is developing a psychotic disorder and learn how to best support them.

Recovery

Psychotic disorders can take up to a year or longer to recover from, depending on the severity, but it is possible to recover. Many people with a psychotic disorder can lead a fulfilling and high-quality life after treatment for their symptoms.

If you’re worried about your mental health or that of your loved one, please contact Hanei Health Solutions in Gaithersburg and Catonsville, MD, today.