Psychosis is not just schizophrenia
When the word psychosis comes up, it is often associated with schizophrenia. Part of the reason for this confusion is probably the way this disorder has been portrayed in popular culture. But psychosis is not synonymous with schizophrenia . In fact, psychosis is a symptom or set of symptoms, but not a disorder in itself. To better understand this, we can draw a parallel with physical health: having a fever (psychosis) does not necessarily mean having the flu (schizophrenia), since fever can occur in several diseases. Similarly, a person can experience psychotic episodes without having schizophrenia , while people with schizophrenia often have psychotic symptoms or episodes.
Therefore, it is important to understand the diversity of conditions that can include psychosis and approach the topic without prejudice or stigma.
What are psychotic disorders?
What is psychosis?
Psychosis refers to a condition that involves a distorted perception of reality. People with psychosis may experience hallucinations (such as hearing voices or seeing things that are not there) and delusions (false or irrational beliefs that cannot be challenged with logical arguments). However, it is important to note that these symptoms are not always experienced. Hallucinations and delusions are more common during the early stages of the disorder, but may decrease or even disappear over time.
A person can experience psychotic episodes without having schizophrenia, while people with schizophrenia often experience psychotic symptoms or episodes.
In addition, psychosis is often associated with other difficulties, such as mental confusion, difficulty organizing thoughts, or loss of contact with what is happening around. These experiences can affect social relationships and daily life, but each person experiences psychosis in a unique way, with a wide range of possible manifestations and intensities.
It is therefore essential to understand that psychosis is a symptom or set of symptoms, not a disorder in itself, that can appear in various mental disorders and also in other contexts , and that its impact depends on many factors, including the support and treatment that the person receives.
Warning signs of psychotic disorders in adolescents
Beyond schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a specific type of psychosis and one of the best-known psychosis-related disorders , but it is not the only one. Schizophrenia is characterized by being the most chronic and symptomatically severe psychotic spectrum disorder and by having the greatest functional impact. However, with appropriate treatment, many people with schizophrenia can stabilize and lead functional lives.
Other conditions that may include psychotic episodes include:
- Schizoaffective disorder.
- Schizophreniform disorder.
- Delusional disorder.
- Affective disorder with psychotic symptoms.
- Brief reactive psychosis.
- Psychosis induced by substance or medication consumption.
- Psychosis due to a medical disorder.
Why is it important to talk about it?
Ignorance about psychosis contributes to perpetuating myths and prejudices that make it difficult for affected people to seek help. Phrases such as "he's crazy" or the belief that people with psychosis are dangerous are not only false, but also exacerbate the stigma and increase the social isolation of those who live with this reality.
The truth is that with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many people can make a full recovery or learn to manage their symptoms effectively, leading full and fulfilling lives. Psychosis does not define a person or their worth.
Psychosis is not just schizophrenia. It is a wide range of experiences that require understanding, individualized attention and, above all, the support of society. It is time to change the narrative about psychosis. We need to talk about it with knowledge and empathy, emphasizing that it is a condition that can be successfully addressed if recognized early and treated appropriately.
Ten myths about psychosis
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