Treatment of Psychosis (Hallucinations, Delusions, Paranoia)

Psychosis is a severe mental health condition characterized by a disconnection from reality. Individuals experiencing psychosis may suffer from delusions (false beliefs), hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that aren’t there), disorganized thinking, and impaired insight into their condition. Psychosis can emerge from a variety of mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression, and substance-induced psychosis.

Given the profound impact that psychosis can have on a person’s ability to function, it is crucial for affected individuals to receive timely and effective treatment. While psychosis can be a challenging condition to manage, with the right interventions and support, individuals can recover or manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. Hopkins Medical Association (HMA) can provide comprehensive care for patients experiencing psychosis and help individuals access emergency help if they are in a mental health crisis.

Understanding Psychosis

Psychosis is not a specific diagnosis but rather a symptom of an underlying mental health condition. It often manifests in two main forms: positive symptoms and negative symptoms.

Positive Symptoms

These symptoms refer to experiences or behaviors that are added to the person’s normal functioning, such as:

  • Delusions: Fixed, false beliefs that are not based in reality. For example, an individual might believe they are being persecuted by a government agency or that they have special powers or abilities.
  • Hallucinations: Perceptions of things that are not present, such as hearing voices, seeing things, or feeling sensations that others do not.
  • Disorganized Thinking: Individuals may have trouble organizing their thoughts, making it difficult to communicate clearly or follow a conversation. Speech may become incoherent or fragmented.
  • Disorganized or Abnormal Motor Behavior: This can include unpredictable movements, agitation, or catatonia (lack of movement or response).

Negative Symptoms

These refer to a decrease or loss of normal functioning and abilities, such as:

  • Affective Flattening: Limited emotional expression, where the individual may appear apathetic or disconnected.
  • Avolition: A lack of motivation to initiate or sustain purposeful activities.
  • Anhedonia: A reduced ability to experience pleasure from activities that were once enjoyable.
  • Social Withdrawal: A tendency to avoid social interactions, which may lead to isolation.

Psychosis can occur in several conditions, including:

  • Schizophrenia: A chronic mental disorder marked by severe disturbances in thought processes, perceptions, and emotional regulation. It often involves both positive and negative symptoms.
  • Bipolar Disorder: People with bipolar disorder may experience psychosis during manic or depressive episodes.
  • Severe Depression: Major depressive disorder can sometimes lead to psychosis, particularly in cases of psychotic depression, where individuals may experience hallucinations or delusions.
  • Substance-Induced Psychosis: The use of drugs, particularly hallucinogens, stimulants, or alcohol, can induce temporary psychosis.

Causes and Risk Factors of Psychosis

Psychosis can be triggered by a variety of factors, and in many cases, there is no single cause. Instead, multiple factors can contribute to its onset, including:

  • Genetic Factors: A family history of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, increases the likelihood of experiencing psychosis.
  • Brain Chemistry and Structure: Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, and abnormalities in brain structure have been linked to conditions like schizophrenia.
  • Trauma and Stress: Emotional trauma, such as childhood abuse or a significant life event, can trigger psychosis, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to mental health issues.
  • Drug Use: Substance abuse, including the use of hallucinogens (like LSD), stimulants (like methamphetamine), and alcohol, can lead to temporary or chronic psychosis.
  • Medical Conditions: Brain infections, tumors, or neurodegenerative diseases can lead to psychosis, particularly when the brain’s functioning is compromised.

Hopkins Medical Association Psychosis Treatment

Hopkins Medical Association (HMA) provides a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of psychosis. At HMA, individuals experiencing psychosis receive personalized care that addresses the biological, psychological, and social aspects of their condition.

Comprehensive Assessment

HMA’s first step in treating psychosis is conducting a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical and psychological history. This assessment involves a detailed evaluation of the individual’s symptoms, family history, and any contributing factors, such as substance use or traumatic experiences. The diagnostic process at HMA is designed to identify the root causes of psychosis and rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms.

Medications

The primary treatment for psychosis involves antipsychotic medications, which help manage symptoms by affecting the brain’s neurotransmitter systems. These medications help reduce the intensity of delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking.

  • Antipsychotic Medications: There are two types of antipsychotic medications—first-generation (typical) and second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics.
    • First-Generation Antipsychotics (FGA): These drugs, such as haloperidol and chlorpromazine, are effective in treating positive symptoms but often come with significant side effects, such as muscle stiffness, tremors, and sedation.
    • Second-Generation Antipsychotics (SGA): Newer medications like risperidone, quetiapine, and olanzapine are often preferred due to their broader effectiveness and fewer side effects. They are effective in treating both positive and some negative symptoms of psychosis.
  • Antidepressants or Mood Stabilizers: In cases where psychosis is secondary to mood disorders like bipolar disorder or severe depression, antidepressants or mood stabilizers like lithium may be prescribed to manage the underlying mood symptoms.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy plays a vital role in helping individuals with psychosis understand their condition, develop coping strategies, and improve their relationships and social functioning. Different types of therapy that can be beneficial for individuals experiencing psychosis include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs, which can help reduce delusions and hallucinations. It can also teach coping mechanisms to manage anxiety, stress, and other symptoms of psychosis.
  • Family Therapy: Family therapy is essential for creating a supportive home environment and addressing any issues that may contribute to or exacerbate the condition. Family members are educated about psychosis, and they learn how to support the individual effectively.
  • Supportive Therapy: This therapy provides emotional support and helps individuals regain confidence in their ability to cope with their condition. It emphasizes resilience and the importance of building a social support network.
  • Social Skills Training: This type of therapy focuses on improving communication and social interactions, which may have been negatively affected by psychosis. It helps individuals improve their social functioning and reintegrate into society.

Hospitalization and Crisis Intervention

HMA realizes that in severe cases of psychosis, especially when individuals are at risk of harming themselves or others, hospitalization may be necessary. Acute psychosis can impair a person’s judgment and lead to dangerous behaviors, so 24/7 medical supervision may be required to ensure safety. During hospitalization, patients receive immediate care, including stabilization with medications, as well as psychotherapy and supportive care.

Supportive Services and Community Resources

Managing psychosis often involves a combination of medical treatment and community-based support. This might include:

  • Case Management: Case managers help coordinate care, ensuring that the individual receives comprehensive services, such as access to therapy, medication, social services, and housing support.
  • Peer Support Groups: Support groups for individuals living with psychosis or other mental health conditions can provide emotional support, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote recovery through shared experiences.
  • Community Outreach Programs: Many communities offer outreach programs that assist individuals in managing their mental health, securing housing, obtaining employment, and integrating back into society.

How to Get Emergency Help in a Mental Health Crisis

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or is at risk of harming themselves or others, immediate action is needed. Below are resources for urgent mental health assistance:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 988 (or text 741741 for text support) for confidential, 24/7 support for individuals in distress.
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for 24/7, confidential crisis counseling.
  • 911: In cases of immediate danger or emergency, dial 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.

Get Help Now

Psychosis is a complex and challenging condition that requires comprehensive treatment, including medications, therapy, and community-based support. Hopkins Medical Association can provide appropriate care, allowing individuals with psychosis to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. Hopkins Medical Association provides holistic, individualized care for individuals with psychosis, offering a combination of psychiatric, psychological, and supportive services. If you or someone you know is experiencing psychosis, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Prompt intervention can save lives and lead to successful recovery. Call HMA at 1-276-598-4448 or stop in at one of our locations to make an appointment today.