Psychotic Disorder

What is a psychotic disorder?

A psychotic disorder causes a disconnection from reality and is characterized by delusions and hallucinations. An example of a psychotic disorder is schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

People with depressive or bipolar disorder can develop psychosis if their mental health condition is severe enough. A psychotic disorder requires expert treatment and management.

Why do people develop psychotic disorders?

Psychosis can develop due to medical reasons, like brain infections, strokes, or adverse side effects from a drug and substance abuse. These cases aren’t mental disorders but problems that require medical treatment. 

The cause of psychotic disorders like schizophrenia isn’t fully understood. They may have a genetic component or have to do with problems in some regions of the brain. Chemical changes in the brain may also play a role in developing psychotic disorders. 

What are the signs of a psychotic disorder?

Psychotic disorders usually appear in adolescence or young adulthood. They’re often triggered when a person undergoes extreme stress or a major life change. Drug abuse can also be associated with a psychotic break. 

You may suspect a psychotic disorder when a person experiences:

• Confused thinking and disorganized speech
• Hallucinations and delusions
• Severe mood swings
• Loss of interest in activities that once brought joy
• Poor personal hygiene
• Problems with all types of relationships 
• Inability to express emotion
• Unusual behavior
• Slowed movements

When a person displays psychosis, they have trouble understanding reality and behaving appropriately. 

How do you treat psychotic disorders?

Dr. Ibeh customizes treatment for psychotic disorders depending on the symptoms, diagnosis, and severity. Her care includes talk therapy to help patients deal with troubling thoughts and delusions. Medication management is also essential as these drugs help correct chemical imbalances that contribute to symptoms of psychosis. 

Seek care as soon as you or a loved one shows signs of a disorder. The sooner you intervene, the more likely you can avoid the condition's progression.  

Hospitalization may be required in severe cases, especially if the patient is at risk of causing harm to themselves or others. 

If you need help with the treatment of a psychotic disorder, contact Salient Health and Wellness today. Call or use this website to request a virtual appointment.