People experiencing psychosis may act strangely. They’re likely hearing voices or seeing things that don’t exist. They’re scared, confused and need help. If you or a loved one shows early signs of psychosis, it’s important to get treatment as quickly as possible.
Banner Health offers comprehensive physical and mental health care to help patients with psychosis achieve recovery. Our behavioral health experts work with patients and their families to develop a treatment plan to meet their specific needs. Banner Health’s team of compassionate, knowledgeable health care professionals is here to support you and your loved ones through the most difficult times.
Psychosis is a mental health condition that affects your sense of reality. During a psychotic episode, patients may experience hallucinations, such as seeing things that aren't there or hearing voices (auditory hallucinations) that others do not hear. They may also believe things that are not real, and display odd behaviors, thoughts and emotions. These psychotic episodes can be frightening and stressful for both the patient and their loved ones.
Psychosis is more common than you might think. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NAMI), 100,000 young people experience psychosis each year with 3 percent of people experiencing it in their lifetime.
Psychosis includes several disorders that affect an individual's perception of reality:
Not all patients with psychosis have schizophrenia; however, schizophrenia causes psychosis symptoms. Psychosis may be caused by illnesses other than schizophrenia, such as depression, bipolar disorder, dementia and borderline personality disorder.
Psychosis affects people from all walks of life. While the cause of psychosis remains unknown, several factors are likely involved.
While, there is no way to prevent psychosis, early intervention leads to the best outcomes. With proper treatment, patients diagnosed with a psychotic disorder can lead normal, productive lives.
If you or a loved one is having symptoms of psychosis, it’s important to seek care from a doctor. Banner Health’s compassionate behavior health team provides expert care, treatment and resources for patients experiencing psychosis and their families.
Psychosis can be frightening, confusing and distressing for both the patient and their families. It’s important to know the symptoms and seek help early.
Symptoms of psychosis frequently includes:
These symptoms can profoundly affect people with psychosis and their families, making it essential to seek early intervention and support.
The first signs of psychosis can be difficult to detect. You may not realize there is a problem. However, if you experience any of these changes, you should talk to your doctor:
Often, families are the first to notice signs of psychosis. However, it can be difficult to address treatment with loved ones. It’s not uncommon if a patient is unwilling to get help. This can be complicated by the patient’s symptoms such as delusions, suspicions and depression, as well as the stigma attached to mental health treatment.
While this situation can be difficult, Banner Health offers patients and their families expert guidance, resources and strategies to help encourage a person to seek help.
Doctors use physical, neurological and psychological evaluations to help diagnose a patient displaying signs and symptoms of psychosis. Sometimes, a mental illness or a medical condition may be the reason for symptoms.
The good news is, patients with psychosis can achieve mental and physical stability by adhering to treatment recommended by their health care providers.
Banner Health’s team of medical and mental health care professionals work with you to create a personalized treatment plan based on your goals. Our comprehensive approach includes psychotherapy (talk therapy) as well as medications. Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), are also utilized to help patients understand their thoughts and behaviors and learn to manage their condition effectively. Therapy can help you understand your thoughts and behaviors, and learn to manage your condition, while medications help reduce symptoms.
Recovery takes time – don’t rush or push too hard. Lean on your friends, family, doctors and support groups to help you get through treatment. Learning about your condition and knowing what to expect can help you advocate for yourself and reduce anxiety.
Learn more about Banner Health’s behavioral health treatment programs and support and education resources.
Located in Tucson, Arizona, Banner Health’s EPICenter is an outpatient community mental health program offering specialized behavioral health and primary care services dedicated to treating psychosis and other related mental health conditions. EPICenter provides:
Early intervention matters. The longer an illness like psychosis goes untreated, the more it disrupts a patient’s ability to lead a normal life. When a patient gets comprehensive, focused care for their first psychotic episode, studies show a lower risk of suicide and hospitalization, and improved cognition, socialization and quality of life. Early intervention significantly improves long-term outcomes.
The prognosis for patients with psychotic disorders varies person to person. However, many patients are able to lead productive lives and function normally with ongoing treatment.
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