What is psychosis?

Psychosis is a mental health disorder characterized by a distortion of the perception of reality and a significant alteration of mental functioning (thinking, emotions and behavior).

The symptoms of psychosis vary from person to person, but some of the most common are: delusional thoughts or false beliefs, hallucinations, mood and mood swings, confused thoughts and changes in behavior. The presence of these symptoms can mean a change in the daily functioning of the affected person in all areas of their life (studies, work, social relationships, etc.) and a very significant impact on the family. The appearance of symptoms is known as a psychotic episode or psychotic outbreak.

Psychotic disorders usually appear in late adolescence or early adulthood. The most common age at which symptoms appear is between the ages of 18 and 24, but most cases occur between the ages of 13 and 30. Approximately 3 in 100 young adults will experience a psychotic episode in their lifetime.

Detection and treatment in the initial phases of the disorder are fundamental for the recovery of those affected.