{"id":2237,"date":"2023-12-04T20:33:00","date_gmt":"2023-12-04T20:33:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/?p=2237"},"modified":"2026-01-08T11:57:14","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T19:57:14","slug":"understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Psychosis: A helpful guide for health professionals"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">In This Article<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#What_Is_Psychosis\" >What Is Psychosis? &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#What_Causes_Psychosis\" >What Causes Psychosis?&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Mental_Health_Conditions\" >Mental Health Conditions:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Medical_Conditions\" >Medical Conditions:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Substance_Use\" >Substance Use:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Other_causes\" >Other causes:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Different_Types_of_Psychotic_Experiences\" >Different Types of Psychotic Experiences&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Recognizing_Psychosis\" >Recognizing Psychosis &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Getting_Help_and_Treatment\" >Getting Help and Treatment &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#The_Impact_On_Individuals_and_Families\" >The Impact On Individuals and Families &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Lets_Talk_About_Stigma\" >Let&#8217;s Talk About Stigma &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Learning_and_Growing_Together\" >Learning and Growing Together&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#References\" >References<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>In today&#8217;s Osmosis from Elsevier blog, we&#8217;re exploring the impact and causes of psychosis, its diverse symptoms, and the importance of early intervention. Learn how to recognize, support, and reduce stigma as a clinician, caregiver, or family member.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imagine if how you perceive reality changed radically, with a disconnect in the way you experience the world around you. Perhaps you aren&#8217;t sure if some things you see or hear are real. It may be hard to imagine, but&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/About-Mental-Illness\/Mental-Health-Conditions\/Psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">100,000 people<\/a>&nbsp;in the US experience this each year, and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/About-Mental-Illness\/Mental-Health-Conditions\/Psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3 in 100<\/a>&nbsp;will experience it at some point in their lifetime. This distorted sense of reality is called psychosis, and it&#8217;s a collection of symptoms caused by a multitude of things, including mental health conditions, medical conditions, stress, trauma, and more. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Psychosis\"><\/span>What Is Psychosis? &nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Psychosis is the impairment of a person&#8217;s perception of reality. Someone experiencing psychosis can present with&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/understanding-psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">symptoms<\/a>&nbsp;including:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Spending more time alone or social withdrawal\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heightened suspicion, paranoid ideas, uneasiness around others\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty falling asleep or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Insomnia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">reduction in sleep<\/a>\u00a0overall\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty communicating and confusing speech\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty with thinking logically and clearly\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Struggling to differentiate between reality and fantasy\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experiencing unusual thoughts or a lack of feelings\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Neglecting personal hygiene\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Academic or work performance decline\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of motivation\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Very strong fixed false beliefs (delusions)\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perception of something that is not present; this can occur with any of the five senses (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/answers\/auditory-hallucinations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hallucinations<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Anyone can experience psychosis, and it can be a scary experience for them and their loved ones. Recognizing the symptoms of psychosis is crucial to helping patients get treatment promptly. The longer it takes for a person to get help, the more disruptive it can be to their lives and those around them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Causes_Psychosis\"><\/span>What Causes Psychosis?&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Psychosis itself is not a diagnosis but a collection of symptoms that can present with certain mental health disorders, medical conditions, traumatic injuries, and substance use. Below is an expanded, but not exhaustive, list of the various&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/conditions\/psychosis\/causes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">causes of psychosis<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mental_Health_Conditions\"><\/span>Mental Health Conditions:&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Schizophrenia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Schizophrenia<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Schizophreniform Disorder \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brief psychotic Disorder\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Bipolar_disorder?utm_term=&amp;utm_campaign=20598411821&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;campaignid=20598411821&amp;adgroupid=&amp;adid=&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA9dGqBhAqEiwAmRpTCyq2TfnfOf9bkwckCGIl47w1fXCtUmcau2mChiLOkUgwToEq8V4JRxoClj8QAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bipolar Disorder<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Major_depressive_disorder?utm_term=&amp;utm_campaign=20598411821&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;campaignid=20598411821&amp;adgroupid=&amp;adid=&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA9dGqBhAqEiwAmRpTC9PY2KVjZ-WENhnEtPlrHHAEgNdiG7TB56jeU3XfQVeLDTQe055dkhoC1wkQAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Major Depressive Disorder<\/a>\u00a0with psychotic symptoms\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anxiety\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stress\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Medical_Conditions\"><\/span>Medical Conditions:&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Alzheimer_disease\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Alzheimer&#8217;s disease<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Human_immunodeficiency_virus_(HIV)_&amp;_acquired_immunodeficiency_syndrome_(AIDS):_Nursing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HIV and AIDS<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multiple Sclerosis\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brain tumor\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Plasmodium_species_(Malaria)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Malaria<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Substance_Use\"><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Drug_misuse%2C_intoxication_and_withdrawal%3A_Stimulants%3A_Pathology_review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Substance Use<\/a>:&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Methamphetamine\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cocaine\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cannabis\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>LSD\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ketamine\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_causes\"><\/span>Other causes:&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Severe head injuries\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sleep deprivation\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Wernicke-Korsakoff_syndrome\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Vitamin deficiency<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to the array of different conditions and substances that can trigger it, did you know that stress can cause psychosis as well? While various studies are working to pinpoint the exact reasons, there are a few theories. One is that&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/17957215\/#:~:text=Psychological%20stress%20also%20increases%20dopamine,in%20susceptibility%20to%20psychotic%20illness.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">stress causes a release of dopamine<\/a>, which worsens psychotic symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. Another theory is that people who experience psychotic episodes or symptoms have a higher amount of stress than those who do not, and this may trigger a psychotic episode.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Extreme amounts of stress, trauma, and sleep deprivation can negatively impact the mind. For example, if a person experiences just&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6048360\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">24 hours of sleep deprivation<\/a>, they&#8217;ll begin to have a distorted perception of reality and experience hallucinations and delusions. Therefore, it&#8217;s crucial to reduce stress when possible and engage in healthy sleep hygiene. These lifestyle modifications can improve overall wellness and may help reduce the risk of an episode of psychosis. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"394\" height=\"363\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/2024-09-11T143533.549.png\" alt=\"Animated character curled up on the floor, distressed, with intrusive thoughts\" class=\"wp-image-2239\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/2024-09-11T143533.549.png 394w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/2024-09-11T143533.549.png?resize=300,276 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 394px) 100vw, 394px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Different_Types_of_Psychotic_Experiences\"><\/span>Different Types of Psychotic Experiences&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Psychosis affects individuals in different ways. As previously mentioned, psychotic experiences can be triggered by a variety of things. Stepping into the world of someone experiencing psychosis can provide a better understanding of what it&#8217;s like, whether it&#8217;s a person with Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, or a psychotic episode. Take a moment to learn more about&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/healthtalk.org\/experiences\/psychosis-young-people\/first-experience-of-psychosis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">what it&#8217;s like to experience psychosis<\/a>&nbsp;firsthand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recognizing_Psychosis\"><\/span>Recognizing Psychosis &nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you recognize symptoms of psychosis in someone and want to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/psychiatry.ucsf.edu\/sites\/psych.ucsf.edu\/files\/PREP%20MH%20First%20Aid.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">offer support<\/a>, here are a few actionable steps to empathetically listen, understand, and support them. Remember, the goal is to make sure the person feels safe, heard, and open to ask for help. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Speak slowly and clearly, and avoid raising your voice.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay calm and be aware that the person may be fearful of the symptoms they are experiencing.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Validate their feelings and listen without judgment.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not attempt to challenge their beliefs.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Offer to help them access treatment, and be aware that they may initially reject your help.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not restrict their movement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Getting_Help_and_Treatment\"><\/span>Getting Help and Treatment &nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since there are medical conditions, substances, and stressors that can cause psychosis, it&#8217;s crucial to get a detailed history and physical exam to pinpoint the cause and provide the best treatment. If medical causes or substance use are ruled out, a healthcare provider will look into mental health issues as the cause. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/About-Mental-Illness\/Mental-Health-Conditions\/Psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Coordinated Specialty Care<\/a>&nbsp;is a team-based service that works to improve a patient&#8217;s outcome with their first episode of psychosis. It includes several components: family education and support, case management, psychotherapy, medication, peer support, and education\/employment support.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding the underlying cause of psychosis is what helps healthcare providers accurately tailor care. However, a few of the common interventions include antipsychotics, which block dopamine receptors in the brain.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Psychotherapy, specifically&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments\/talking-therapies-and-counselling\/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt\/overview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT<\/a>), draws attention to negative thought patterns and maladaptive behaviors to provide patients with healthy coping strategies. Family therapy is also commonly used to help family members learn how to support someone dealing with psychosis, educate them on the condition, and provide support for caregivers as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Impact_On_Individuals_and_Families\"><\/span>The Impact On Individuals and Families &nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As psychotic&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/medicine.yale.edu\/psychiatry\/step\/psychosis\/#phases-of-psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">symptoms<\/a>&nbsp;persist, they become more distressing for individuals and their families. At first, they may not be as noticeable, but they&#8217;ll eventually impair an individual&#8217;s ability to function personally and professionally. Reduced concentration, anxiety, social withdrawal, strange beliefs, and difficulty with logical thinking and communicating are very worrisome for both the individual and their family because their change in behavior can be drastic. Getting help as soon as possible is important, as well as working with a treatment team to support the individual dealing with psychosis. Remember to be as patient, open-minded, and empathetic as possible. Dealing with psychosis is not easy, but there are effective treatments that work to reduce symptoms. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to providing support for a loved one, family members may also need support. Remember, you can&#8217;t pour from an empty cup. Resources such as support groups, family therapy, and counseling are available. So, if you have a loved one dealing with psychosis, make the time to find some support for yourself as well. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lets_Talk_About_Stigma\"><\/span>Let&#8217;s Talk About Stigma &nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are a variety of misconceptions and stereotypes associated with the term psychosis. It&#8217;s important to clarify that an individual experiencing psychosis isn&#8217;t simply &#8220;crazy&#8221; or just &#8220;talking to themselves.&#8221; &nbsp;We discussed the altered reality that these individuals experience. Their responses are linked to that alternate reality. So, while their perception may differ from ours, they may respond directly to their&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2019\/09\/16\/his-hallucinations-a-clinical-experience\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hallucination<\/a>, convinced that it&#8217;s real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another problematic stereotype about psychosis is that it means an individual will be violent. The media often shows a person with psychosis acting erratically and lashing out physically, but it&#8217;s not an accurate depiction. In fact, those with mental illness are more often&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/Blogs\/NAMI-Blog\/October-2020\/Why-Stereotypes-About-Psychosis-Are-Harmful\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">victims of violence rather than perpetrators of it<\/a>. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most notable is the need to distinguish psychosis and psychopathy. A psychopath is unable to experience empathy, which is very different from a psychotic episode. Psychosis involves a temporary disconnect from reality, marked by symptoms like hallucinations, while psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by ongoing antisocial behavior, diminished empathy, and a lack of remorse. They differ in nature, symptoms, and underlying traits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talking about stereotypes and dispelling them is how we can work to reduce the stigma surrounding psychosis and other mental health disorders so that everyone can feel empowered to get the help that they need and deserve.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Learning_and_Growing_Together\"><\/span><strong>Learning and Growing Together<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By learning more about psychosis, you&#8217;re taking an active step in creating a supportive community for those who experience it. Knowing how to recognize the signs, effectively provide support, and understand the treatment options are all helpful tools that will come in handy when interacting with your patients or a loved one experiencing psychosis. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re interested in learning more, check out these great resources:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/About-Mental-Illness\/Mental-Health-Conditions\/Psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Alliance on Mental Illness<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mhanational.org\/conditions\/psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mental Health America<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychologytoday.com\/us\/basics\/psychosis#:~:text=Psychosis%20can%20include%20hallucinations%2C%20delusions,beliefs%20are%20hallmarks%20of%20psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Psychology Today<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"References\"><\/span>References<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/About-Mental-Illness\/Mental-Health-Conditions\/Psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nami.org\/About-Mental-Illness\/Mental-Health-Conditions\/Psychosis<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/understanding-psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/understanding-psychosis<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/conditions\/psychosis\/causes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/conditions\/psychosis\/causes\/<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/17957215\/#:~:text=Psychological%20stress%20also%20increases%20dopamine,in%20susceptibility%20to%20psychotic%20illness\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/17957215\/<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6048360\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6048360\/<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/healthtalk.org\/psychosis-young-people\/first-experience-of-psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/healthtalk.org\/psychosis-young-people\/first-experience-of-psychosis<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/psychiatry.ucsf.edu\/sites\/psych.ucsf.edu\/files\/PREP%20MH%20First%20Aid.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/psychiatry.ucsf.edu\/sites\/psych.ucsf.edu\/files\/PREP%20MH%20First%20Aid.pdf<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments\/talking-therapies-and-counselling\/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt\/overview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments\/talking-therapies-and-counselling\/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt\/overview\/<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/medicine.yale.edu\/psychiatry\/step\/psychosis\/#phases-of-psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/medicine.yale.edu\/psychiatry\/step\/psychosis\/#phases-of-psychosis<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/families\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/families<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/Blogs\/NAMI-Blog\/October-2020\/Why-Stereotypes-About-Psychosis-Are-Harmful\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nami.org\/Blogs\/NAMI-Blog\/October-2020\/Why-Stereotypes-About-Psychosis-Are-Harmful<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mhanational.org\/conditions\/psychosis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/mhanational.org\/conditions\/psychosis<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/clinical-sciences\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_ca7283.png\" alt=\"stay a step ahead with the osmosis clinical sciences library. Create an account ad\" class=\"wp-image-2240\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_ca7283.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/image_ca7283.png?resize=300,107 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In today&#8217;s Osmosis from Elsevier blog, we&#8217;re exploring the impact and causes of psychosis, its diverse symptoms, and the importance of early intervention. Learn how to recognize, support, and reduce stigma as a clinician, caregiver, or family member. Imagine if how you perceive reality changed radically, with a disconnect in the way you experience the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":175,"featured_media":2238,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[27,10,14,867,28,30,16,37,32],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2237","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-medicine","category-clinical-skills","category-dental","category-lpn","category-mental-health","category-np","category-do","category-pa","category-nursing"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Understanding Psychosis: A helpful guide for health professionals - Osmosis Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-psychosis-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Understanding Psychosis: A helpful guide for health professionals - Osmosis Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"In today&#8217;s Osmosis from Elsevier blog, we&#8217;re exploring the impact and causes of psychosis, its diverse symptoms, and the importance of early intervention. 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