Psychosis causes you to lose touch with reality. A psychotic episode can affect your ability to function in daily life and may compromise your safety and the safety of those close to you. A psychotic disorder is a serious mental illness, but with treatment, you can continue to live a full, satisfying life. The experts at EXIS Recovery Inc. in West Los Angeles, California, have the knowledge and experience to help you manage your psychotic symptoms and regain control over your ability to function and interact with friends and family. To schedule a consultation, call the clinic today.
Psychotic Disorders Q & A
What is a psychotic disorder?
A psychotic disorder is a severe mental health condition characterized by a mental state that has separated from reality. During an episode of psychosis, you experience disrupted thoughts, perceptions, and behaviors, and you have trouble distinguishing what is and isn’t real.
What are the symptoms of a psychotic disorder?
A psychotic episode typically begins with early warning signs, such as:
- A decline in school or job performance
- Difficulty concentrating
- Suspiciousness of others
- A decrease in personal hygiene
- Avoiding social contact
- Strong, inappropriate emotions
- Lack of emotions
Treatment of psychosis is most effective in the early stages, so if you or someone in your family shows these signs, seek help from a skilled mental health provider.
A full psychotic episode may include:
Hallucinations
Hearing voices, experiencing strange physical sensations, and having unexplained feelings or emotions are examples of psychotic hallucinations.
Delusions
Believing external forces are controlling your thoughts or actions, finding personal meaning or significance in trivial events or objects, or thinking you have special powers are examples of delusions.
Disorganized speech, flat facial expression, and inability to sleep can indicate that you or someone close to you is experiencing a psychotic episode.
What causes psychosis?
Psychosis may occur due to a variety of factors, such as:
- Substance abuse
- Medical conditions
- Trauma
- Brain injury
- Medication side effects
Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder are examples of mental health conditions that can cause psychotic episodes.
How are psychotic disorders treated?
The team at EXIS Recovery takes an integrative approach to mental health care. They design personalized treatment plans that relieve psychotic symptoms, ensure your safety, and help you regain control of your life. Your custom treatment plan includes a combination of evidence-based therapies, such as:
- Individual psychotherapy
- Small-group counseling
- Sensory-motor therapy
- Trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT)
Medication may be necessary to address your psychosis. The team provides expert medication management to minimize side effects and maximize effectiveness.
If needed, your care plan may also include substance abuse treatment and treatment for depression, anxiety, and other co-occurring conditions.
In addition to psychiatric care, your expert may recommend yoga, meditation, massage therapy, and other approaches that relieve stress and promote physical and emotional well-being.
If you or someone in your family shows signs of a psychotic disorder, don’t wait to schedule a confidential consultation at EXIS Recovery. Call today to request an appointment.
