PsychosisHow to Say It: Si-Ko-Sis
by
Amy Scholten, MPH DefinitionPsychosis is loss of contact with reality. It may result in false beliefs called delusions or sensing things that are not really there (hallucinations). CausesPsychosis may be caused by changes in brain chemicals or structures. It can occur with:
Risk FactorsThings that may raise the risk of psychosis are:
SymptomsSymptoms can vary. They may include:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. The doctor will ask about use of substances. This includes alcohol use, illegal drugs, medicines, supplements and herbs. A mental health exam will be done. Blood and urine tests will be done. This is to check for substances or imbalances in the body. TreatmentTreatment of psychosis depends on the cause. Hospital care may be needed until the condition is managed. Options may be:
PreventionPreventing psychosis depends on the cause. Certain conditions raise the risk. Managing those conditions may reduce it. RESOURCES:National Institute of Mental Health https://www.nimh.nih.gov National Mental Health Association http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Mental Health Association https://cmha.ca Canadian Psychiatric Association http://www.cpa-apc.org References:Ahsan MS, Mullick MS, et al. Substance use among the patients with first episode psychosis. Mymensingh Med J. 2018;27(2):313-320. First psychosis–approach to the patient. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/approach-to/first-episode-psychosis-approach-to-the-patient. Accessed March 12, 2021. Psychosis. Centre for Addiction and Mental Health website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed March 12, 2021. Psychosis. National Alliance on Mental Illness website. Available at: https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Psychosis Accessed March 12, 2021. Psychosis. NHS Choices website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed March 12, 2021. Psychosis. Rethink Mental Illness website. Available at: https://www.rethink.org/diagnosis-treatment/conditions/psychosis. Accessed March 12, 2021. Last reviewed January 2021 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Adrian Preda, MD Last Updated: 3/12/2021 |
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