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Psychosis is a mental health condition where a person experiences things that most other people do not experience or experience differently. This can include seeing or hearing things that others don’t (hallucinations), having strong beliefs that appear to most others to be not based in reality (delusions), or having confused thoughts.
Psychosis may be present in people with a range of mental health conditions, but is standard in conditions such as schizophrenia.
Psychosis can present in severe cases of depression or bipolar mood disorder, or as a result of substance use, certain medical conditions or extreme stress. It’s very important to understand that not everyone who uses substances or who has depression or bipolar will experience psychosis.
Many people think psychosis and schizophrenia are the same, but they are different. Schizophrenia has psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, but also other symptoms. Schizophrenia is a long-term condition, while psychosis is not always long-term.
In South Africa some people appear to be psychotic due to the way they express their cultural and religious beliefs. It’s important to respect and acknowledge these beliefs and to investigate further so as not to assume that people who have such experiences have a mental disorder or a mental health condition. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between a mental health condition and expressions of cultural beliefs or religion, and therefore practitioners and community members need to be particularly alert and sensitive to both.
These vary from person to person, but generally include:
These involve identifying things which others don’t experience. There are different kinds of hallucinations, such as:
These are strong beliefs even when there is evidence against them. For example, believing you are being targeted, controlled by others, or that you have special powers.
Trouble organising thoughts and speaking clearly. Speech might be mixed up, hard to follow, or jump quickly between unrelated topics.
This can include being very restless or, at the other extreme, not moving at all and seeming frozen in place (catatonia)
These are problems with feelings and actions, such as having less motivation, staying away from people, showing fewer emotions, or finding it hard to start and keep doing things.
Problems with focus, memory, and doing tasks that need planning and organising.
Many people with psychosis do not understand that their thoughts and feelings are different from what other people experience. They may not know they need help.
Managing psychosis involves getting professional help, sticking to your treatment plan, educating yourself and loved ones, developing coping strategies, and building a strong support network. Here are steps to help:
See a psychiatrist or mental health expert specializing in psychosis for assessment and treatment options, typically including medication and psychological support.
Take medications and attend counselling sessions regularly to manage symptoms and prevent relapses.
Educate yourself and loved ones about psychosis to recognise symptoms, anticipate challenges, and make informed treatment decisions. This also fosters empathy and better communication.
Get help from a therapist or counsellor to manage stress with techniques such as breathing exercises or yoga. Stick to a daily routine for stability and less stress.