Clearfork Academy logo
(888) 594-8699open 24/7

Psychosis

Plus signs

Psychosis is more common than many people might think. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 100,000 young people in America experience psychosis each year. As many as three in 100 people will have a psychotic episode at some point in their lives. Teenagers and young adults have a higher risk of experiencing psychosis due to changes in the brain during puberty

What is Psychosis?

The most basic psychosis definition is a break with reality. Therefore, a psychosis episode is characterized by disruption to a person’s thoughts and perceptions that makes it difficult for them to determine what is real and what is not. A psychotic break is considered a symptom rather than a mental illness. Thus, psychotic disorders are mental health disorders characterized by periods of psychosis. Some of these disorders are schizophrenia, delusional disorder, psychotic depression, and bipolar psychosis. Psychosis causes include genetics, trauma, substance use, physical illness or injury, or mental health conditions. Moreover, psychosis can sometimes be the result of a brain tumor, dementia, prescription medications, or alcohol or drug abuse.

The most prevalent psychosis symptoms are delusions and hallucinations. Hallucinations include hearing, seeing, tasting, or feeling things that others cannot perceive. If the person is suffering from delusions, they have strong beliefs that are irrational and unlikely to be true. These include delusions of grandeur (thinking they have special powers, for example) or paranoid delusions (such as believing that an outside force is controlling their actions). Other psychotic symptoms are disorganized thought and speech, catatonia (unresponsiveness), and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, milder psychosis may manifest as anxiety, feelings of suspicion, and obsessive thinking.

Antipsychotic medications are often used to treat psychosis. Furthermore, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been shown to be useful in helping people with psychotic disorders manage their symptoms. In conclusion, early diagnosis and treatment is essential when addressing psychosis. Research has shown that treatment works better when it is started as soon as possible after the symptoms begin.

Sources: National Alliance on Mental Illness, Medical News Today, National Institute of Mental Health  

It's Time to Make a Change

We Can Help You on Your Path to Mental Wellness

Call Today (888) 594-8699

Blog

Read More
Parent Information

How To Help A Teenager With Anxiety And Depression?

Anxiety and depression affect nearly 40% of teenagers, impacting their health, relationships, and academic performance. Learn the warning signs, different types of disorders, and how to support your teen through difficult times.

March 25, 2025

How Common is Drug Abuse in Schools?

March 25, 2025

Teen substance abuse is a growing concern, with many students experimenting with drugs and alcohol. Learn about the warning signs, school prevention strategies, and treatment options to support teens in making healthier choices.

How To Deal With A Difficult Teenager and Help Them?

March 25, 2025

Teen years bring challenges, but when behaviors like self-harm, reckless actions, or extreme mood swings appear, they could signal mental health struggles. Learn how to recognize red flags and support your teen effectively.

What Can Happen if Parents Ignore Their Teen’s Mental Illness?

March 20, 2025

Ignoring a teen’s mental health struggles won’t make them disappear—it can worsen symptoms, leading to academic decline, substance abuse, and long-term emotional challenges. Learn how to recognize the warning signs and why early intervention is crucial.

Copyright © 2025 Clearfork Academy | All Rights Reserved | Sitemap