Can't tell the difference between truth and falsehood? Let's talk about Psychosis (Psychosis)

Do you sometimes see or hear things that aren't there? Or do you have a strong belief that someone is plotting against you or controlling you without any basis? Don't just dismiss these as just a fantasy. This may actually be a condition that needs medical attention. Today we're talking about a condition called "Psychosis," which causes these kinds of experiences.

Simply put, what is Psychosis?

Psychosis is a condition in which a person is unable to distinguish between the real world and what they are imagining in their mind. That is, they lose touch with reality. It is not a single disease, but a collection of symptoms. A person with this condition may experience things that are not real or strongly believe things that are completely false.

There are two main types of symptoms. Let's understand them clearly.

What are the causes of psychosis?

Psychosis can be caused by more than one cause, but by a number of factors. Let's break them down into several categories.

Mental health conditions

Psychosis can occur as a main symptom of many mental illnesses. Some of the main conditions include:

Schizophreniaand related medical conditions.
• Bipolar Disorder .
• Mood disorders such as major depression .
• Delusional Disorder (a condition that only causes delusions).
• Substance/Medication-Induced Psychotic Disorder.

Other physical illnesses

Some physical illnesses can also affect brain function and cause symptoms of psychosis.

• Alzheimer's disease and other dementia conditions.
• Infections that affect the brain or spinal cord, for example, encephalitis or meningitis.
• Autoimmune diseases such as Lupus and Multiple Sclerosis .
• Hormone-related diseases, for example, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
• Nervous system diseases such as stroke .
• Vitamin B1 and B12 deficiencies.
• Postpartum Psychosis: This is a very severe, sudden mental condition that can occur after childbirth. It is much more serious than the normal mood swings that occur after childbirth.

Other causes and triggers

• Alcohol and drug use: Excessive use of drugs such as marijuana and other drug abuse, especially during youth.
• Severe head injuries.
• Traumatic experiences, past or present.
• Unbearable stress or anxiety.

What are the treatments for this?

Treatment for psychosis depends on the underlying cause. Sometimes, the symptoms of psychosis will go away when the underlying physical illness is treated. However, if you want to treat the psychosis condition itself directly, there are several main methods.

• Medications: Antipsychotic medications are the most commonly used for this. In addition, the doctor may prescribe other medications such as antidepressants as needed.
• Counseling and behavioral therapy: Treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help manage these symptoms and reduce the stress they cause.
• Hospitalization: If the patient is at risk of harming themselves or others, they may need to be hospitalized or treated in a specialized facility to protect them.
• Support programs: If the situation is caused by problems such as drug use, rehabilitation programs are very important. There are also programs that help people live well again in society, get a job, and live well with their families.

How can you help a loved one if they have these symptoms?

It's common for someone with psychosis to not realize they have a problem (also called anosognosia - lack of insight). So, if you notice that a family member or friend is experiencing these symptoms, here are some ways you can help.

• Listen attentively: Ask, "How do you want to help?" Listen to their feelings, their fears. Make them feel like you're with them.
• Encourage them to seek medical advice: Say something like, "Should we talk to a doctor about this?" and reassure them that the condition can be managed with treatment.
• Stay calm: It is very important that you remain calm when they are upset and scared. Make them feel safe. If the noise level is too high, go to a quiet place.
• Get help in an emergency: People with psychosis are at high risk of suicide. If they talk about harming themselves or others, or are behaving in an extremely agitated or violent manner, take them to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. If you suspect a drug or medication overdose, you can call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Are Psychosis and Schizophrenia two different things?

Many people confuse these two words, but there is a clear difference.

• Psychosis: This is a collection of symptoms. It is a disconnection from reality. These symptoms can be seen in schizophrenia, as well as in many other conditions such as bipolar disorder, major depression, and brain infections.
• Schizophrenia is a specific mental illness. Psychosis is just one of the main symptoms of schizophrenia. Almost everyone with schizophrenia experiences psychosis.

Simply put, fever is like a symptom of a disease. That fever can be caused by various diseases like dengue and pneumonia. Similarly, Psychosis is also a symptom of a disease, and Schizophrenia is a disease that causes those symptoms.