Psychosis
What Is It?
A person experiencing psychosis might lose touch with what other people would consider as reality. Psychosis isn’t actually a word for a particular mental health difficulty because there are lots of different things that might cause psychosis. These might include schizophrenia, severe depression and bipolar disorder as well as being triggered by lots of different things including experiencing a trauma.
If you were experiencing psychosis, you might experience delusions (believing things that others might find strange) and hallucinations (hearing voices or seeing things that are not there), feel like you can’t concentrate and it might be hard to think straight. This might mean that you experience things differently to those around you and it may be difficult to tell between what’s real and what isn’t.
What Might Help?
- Talk to a friend: Sometimes with psychosis, things can appear a little muddled. Talking through things with someone you trust might be helpful because they may be able to see things a little clearer.
- Write things down: It might be a good idea to write things down that have happened which have caused you to think about psychosis, such as when you hear voices. This also might help you explain to somebody what’s happening.
- Staying calm: Sometimes when we feel stressed it can make things seem worse, so it’s really important to stay calm. Finding different ways to relax can be helpful.
- Seek professional help: If you feel worried about psychosis then it’s really important to talk to somebody so that you can get the right help. Your GP might be a good starting place to consider specialist services. You can also contact ReThink (0300 5000 927) and they may be able offer you some good ideas.
Useful Clips and Stories:
Top Apps:
- MindMeister (Android and iPhone link)
- Breathe 2 Relax – Apple – Android
Extra Info:
- There is a detailed information booklet on Psychosis that might be helpful
- Ideas of support on the Mind website
- NHS information on Psychosis