Psychotic disorder is a general term for psychological disorders in which the individual's sense of reality is altered. Many disorders, primarily schizophrenia, are referred to as "psychotic". Psychotic disorders do not allow the individual to perceive reality. This leads to the development of serious mental illnesses. The well-known "schizophrenia" is the most serious disorder in this category. These mental disorders are treated with the correct diagnosis and treatment within the scope of the psychiatry branch.
Apsychotic disorder is a condition in which an individual loses touch with the real world and reality. This is a symptom of some serious mental problems. Psychosis is characterized by delusions or hallucinations. In psychosis, people see things that other people do not see, hear voices that have no relation to reality, or believe things that are not real. These frightening experiences can cause people with psychotic disorders to put themselves or others in a difficult situation. Some psychiatric conditions such as intense anxiety, sleep problems, substance abuse, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder can cause psychosis . This mental illness is treatable. The patient's recovery process begins with antipsychotic drugs, therapy and social support in the treatment applied individually by the psychiatrist.
What are Psychotic Disorders?
Such people who have mental problems but are not aware of it do not want to be treated. Even if they accept the situation they are in, they think that others are the source of the problem. This illness usually manifests itself in attacks and there is more than one type. We can list psychotic disorders as follows;
Schizophrenia: It is one of the most common psychotic disorders. People who are constantly anxious become different from their surroundings and behave like strangers. Many patients can lock on to a single focal point for hours. There is currently no cure for schizophrenia. However, the progression of the disorder can be prevented with alternative forms of treatment and therapies.
Behavior Disorders: Unstable mood and behavioral disorders are also called psychotic. A person may become sad for no reason, or suddenly become happy when they are sad.
Lack of Understanding: The sick person thinks that all the delusions and hallucinations he/she sees are real. He/she thinks that the individuals around him/her see the things he/she sees, and the reason for this is his/her lack of understanding.
What are the symptoms of psychotic disorder?
Psychotic disorder does not start suddenly. This mental illness manifests itself in attacks. We can list the symptoms of psychotic disorder as follows;
- Concentration problem
- Mood swings
- Sleep disturbance
- Anxiety (anxiety)
- Stress
- Indifference to the environment
- Delusions
- Hallucination
- Don't be unresponsive
- Irregular behavior in thinking, speaking or acting (thinking about unrelated topics).
- Suicidal thoughts in the mind
- Dangerous movements
- Not taking care of personal hygiene
- Disconnection from everyday life
- Problems at school, at work and in interpersonal relationships
How is Psychotic Disorder Diagnosed?
In order to diagnose this type of disorder, a psychiatrist should be consulted. The specialist first learns about the person's medical and psychiatric history. In addition, it is investigated whether medication or drugs have been used, the person's general mental state, and whether the person has hallucinations or delusions. A physical examination is then performed, and blood tests and brain imaging methods may be used to determine the person's physical condition or substance use.
How is Psychotic Disorder Treated?
After the first episode of psychosis , treatment should begin immediately. Early treatment can help prevent negative situations in relationships and daily life. In addition, starting treatment early can help minimize the problems that may occur due to psychotic disorder. The way in which the specialist will treat is determined by the individual's condition.
The specialist may prescribe antipsychotic medication in pill, liquid or injection form to minimize symptoms. The specialist may also recommend avoiding the use of drugs and alcohol.
If the person is at risk of harming themselves or others and is unable to control their behavior, they may need hospitalization. Treatment methods for psychosis can be listed as follows;
Immediate sedation: Some people withpsychotic disorders do not leave themselves alone and may harm those around them. In such a situation, it may be necessary to calm these people down. This method is called immediate sedation. The patient is sedated with an injection or liquid medication.
Medication: People with symptoms of the illness can be kept under control with medications calledantipsychotics . These medications help to minimize hallucinations and delusions and make the individual's mind clearer. These medications are recommended according to the symptoms of the disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy: The patient needs to stay in regular contact with the health counselor. This has a positive effect on the process of changing one's thinking and actions. This approach has led to lasting changes in patients and they have been observed to manage the illness better. This treatment method has been found to be useful for many symptoms of psychosis that do not respond to medication.