Psychosis: Symptoms, causes and treatments
Each year, around 1 in 200 adult Australians experience a psychotic illness.1 With early support and treatment, it’s possible to manage symptoms and live a fulfilling life.
Jump to section: Symptoms | Supporting someone | Causes | Treatment | Where to get help
What is psychosis?
Psychosis describes a state where a person cannot tell what is and isn’t real. This might mean seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations), or having strong beliefs that aren’t shared by others (delusions).
Psychosis often occurs in episodes which can last from a few hours to several months. It can be distressing and frightening. People may behave in ways that seem out of character, or struggle to cope with everyday life.
It’s important to seek medical help as early as possible if you or someone you know is experiencing signs of psychosis.
Symptoms of psychosis
Psychosis looks different for everyone, but common symptoms can include:
- confused thoughts
- delusions, including paranoia
- hallucinations
- withdrawing from friends or family
- mood swings
- thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
If you or someone around you is experiencing these symptoms, especially if there are signs of self-harm or suicidal thoughts, seek urgent help by calling 000 or by visiting the nearest hospital emergency department
How to support someone experiencing psychosis
If someone is experiencing psychosis, speak calmly, clearly and without judgement. Use short sentences and avoid arguing with or questioning their beliefs. Instead, focus on how they’re feeling and let them know you’re there to support them.
They may be confused or fearful, so give them space and avoid sudden movements or touch. If they mention voices or unusual experiences, use their language to describe them as this can help build trust.
Try to find out whether there is someone else who is supporting them – ideally, a mental health professional. Their GP will work with them to find the best treatment for them and to help make sure their symptoms don’t get worse. You can let them know that early treatment for psychosis is important, and encourage them to consider getting help sooner rather than later.
If you feel comfortable doing so, offer to make an appointment for them, or to go with them to the appointment.
24/7 Medibank Mental Health Support
Medibank health insurance members can chat to a mental health professional about how they feel and ask questions about a range of mental health concerns for themselves or a loved one and get guidance on what they can do next. Chat online or call 1800 644 325 anytime of the day or night, 7 days a week at no extra cost.~
What causes psychosis?
Psychosis is a complex illness with multiple causes. It can be linked to a mix of genetic, biochemical, environmental and physical factors.
Some people may be more vulnerable due to a family history of psychotic disorders or other mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or severe depression.
Common triggers include stressful life events or trauma, and the use of drugs such as cannabis and methamphetamines (speed or ice).
Often, it’s a combination of factors that make someone more vulnerable to developing psychosis.
Psychosis is treatable and often includes a combination of medical, psychological and practical support. Treatment may include:
- medication to rebalance brain chemicals
- psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or counselling
- lifestyle support, such as improving sleep, reducing stress and avoiding alcohol or recreational drugs
- community support: help with housing, work, finances and daily living.
Many people benefit from long-term support from a team of professionals including GPs, psychiatrists, psychologists and occupational therapists.
Where to go for help
If your life or someone else’s is in danger, call 000 immediately.
If you’re in distress and need help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support.
For non-emergency support, your GP or regular health practitioner is often the best place to start. They will be able to assess your individual situation and recommend the best next steps for your recovery.
Medibank health insurance members can chat to a mental health professional about how they feel and ask questions about a range of mental health concerns for themselves or a loved one and get guidance on what they can do next. Chat online or call 1800 644 325 anytime of the day or night, 7 days a week at no extra cost.~
Remember that help is always available, no matter the situation.
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~ Some referred services may involve out of pocket costs and waiting periods may apply.
While we hope you find this information helpful, please note that it is general in nature. It is not health advice, and is not tailored to meet your individual health needs. You should always consult a trusted health professional before making decisions about your health care. While we have prepared the information carefully, we can’t guarantee that it is accurate, complete or up-to-date. And while we may mention goods or services provided by others, we aren’t specifically endorsing them and can’t accept responsibility for them. For these reasons we are unable to accept responsibility for any loss that may be sustained from acting on this information (subject to applicable consumer guarantees).