Psychosis

Psychosis stands as one of the most misunderstood and stigmatised mental health conditions. It is a symptom of various mental health disorders and not a diagnosis in itself. Characterised by hallucinations, delusions and a distorted perception of reality, psychosis deeply affects an individual’s ability to discern the real from the unreal.

Psychosis, a condition which distorts a person’s perception of reality through hallucinations, delusions or disorganised thinking, can arise due to substance use, mental health disorders or sleep deprivation.

In addiction treatment, it’s important to address psychosis alongside substance abuse as a dual disorder. Unmanaged psychosis can impede recovery and increase relapse risk. Treatment involves comprehensive assessments to identify psychosis and its impact, followed by personalised plans incorporating mental health services. Not all individuals with addiction experience psychosis but for those who do, integrating mental health care is essential. Treatment typically includes medication management to stabilise mood and reduce hallucinations and psychotherapy to develop coping strategies and understand thought patterns. Addressing psychosis in addiction treatment, though complex, is central for successful, long-term recovery with a focus on tailored care and evidence-based practices.

At its core, psychosis is an altered state of mind marked by two primary symptoms:

• Hallucinations
  These involve sensing things that are not present. The most common are auditory hallucinations, such as hearing voices.
• Delusions
  These are strong beliefs that are clearly false or irrational but are held with high conviction. Examples include paranoid delusions or beliefs of grandeur.

Psychosis can stem from various sources making it a complex symptom to understand and treat. Potential causes include:

• Mental Health Disorders
  Conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and severe depression.
• Substance Use
  Certain drugs, both recreational and prescribed, can induce psychotic episodes.
• Brain Injuries or Diseases
  Traumatic brain injuries, brain tumors or neurological diseases like Parkinson’s disease.
• Genetic Factors
  There is often a hereditary component, particularly in psychotic disorders like schizophrenia.

For the individual, experiencing psychosis can be frightening and confusing. The inability to distinguish between what’s real and what’s not can lead to significant distress, impacting daily functioning and relationships.

It often requires medical intervention to manage effectively.

Managing psychosis typically involves a combination of

• Medication
  Antipsychotic drugs are the cornerstone of treatment, helping to alleviate hallucinations and delusions.
• Psychotherapy
  Therapies like CBT can assist in coping with symptoms and addressing the underlying issues.
• Support Systems
  Family support and community resources are vital for ongoing management and recovery.

Understanding psychosis is fundamental for breaking the stigma associated with it. Awareness and education can create a more empathetic and supportive environment for those experiencing these challenging symptoms.

As we continue to explore and understand this symptom, it is vital to advocate for those affected, ensuring they receive the care and respect they deserve. For anyone experiencing signs of psychosis, prompt professional help can lead to significant improvements and a return to reality.

Substance-induced psychosis, a distinct psychiatric condition, often arises from prolonged use of certain drugs, notably stimulants like methamphetamine and cocaine. Studies indicate that these substances can precipitate a psychotic episode, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to mental illness. The American Psychiatric Association highlights that symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, although similar to those in primary psychotic disorders, are directly attributable to the acute effects of substance intoxication or withdrawal.

Dual Diagnosis (Co-occurring Disorders)

The co-occurrence of substance use disorders and psychotic disorders, known as dual diagnosis, presents a complex challenge in mental health treatment. The Journal of the American Medical Association reports that nearly 50% of individuals with severe mental disorders are affected by substance abuse and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) suggests that dual diagnosis requires an integrated treatment approach addressing both conditions simultaneously for effective recovery.

Substance Abuse and Pre-existing Psychotic Disorders

Substance abuse can severely exacerbate pre-existing psychotic disorders. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), individuals with disorders like schizophrenia often experience worsened symptoms and a more rapid decline in their mental health when they abuse substances. This includes increased risk of hospitalization and a higher likelihood of failing to adhere to treatment plans, further complicating their prognosis.

Treatment Strategies for Dual Diagnosis

Treating individuals with dual diagnosis necessitates an integrated approach that combines addiction treatment with psychiatric care. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) advocates for a coordinated strategy that includes detoxification, behavioural therapies and ongoing psychiatric care. This approach is crucial, as treating one condition while neglecting the other often leads to poor outcomes.

Role of Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy plays a critical role in treating both psychosis and substance abuse. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), as per research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, is particularly effective. It helps patients understand and change their thought patterns and behaviors, manage symptoms of psychosis and address underlying issues that contribute to substance abuse, significantly improving treatment outcomes.

Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and Thailand, WeDoRecover supports individuals globally, including those from the United Arab Emirates and Europe. Accepting both South African medical aid and international health insurance our organisation facilitates access to high-quality treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders, offering individualised care that addresses the physical, mental and social needs of patients.

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Prompt Response

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“Extremely professional”

Excellent intervention services

Thanks for helping

Getting treatment and recovery

I was just so scared

I used to believe

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