Many people can live independently, hold a job, and have meaningful relationships after episodes of psychosis, according to information released on Jul. 23. Treatment for psychosis is available and is more effective if started early. There are clear causes and risk factors that can explain why psychosis begins.
Psychosis often appears when someone is in their late teens or twenties, sometimes catching them and their families off guard. Symptoms may include hearing voices that others do not hear, seeing things that are not present, or feeling suspicious that someone is watching them. Episodes can last from a few days to several years.
The causes of psychosis vary and may include drug use, extreme sleep deprivation, intense stress, non-psychiatric illnesses such as encephalitis or thyroid disease, brain issues like tumors or strokes, or mental illnesses involving psychotic features. Some of these causes can be resolved with appropriate treatment.
Risk factors for developing a mental illness with psychosis include genetics, brain chemistry changes, and stress levels. Psychosis typically develops gradually over months or years rather than suddenly overnight. Early warning signs might involve social withdrawal, declining academic or work performance, mood changes, trouble concentrating or sleeping, and growing concerns about personal safety.
If left untreated after one or more episodes of psychosis, individuals may drop out of school, misuse drugs or alcohol, face legal troubles, or attempt suicide. However, coordinated specialty care—which includes therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy; medication management; support for work and school success; education for family members; and case management—has been shown to help manage symptoms effectively.
Early intervention leads to better outcomes: “People used to think if you had psychosis you could never live independently, hold a job or have meaningful relationships. That’s not true.” Many people return to school, jobs, and previous routines following treatment, showing recovery is possible.
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