Medicines for Psychosis

What it is

Psychosis is a mental health state in which a person perceives or interprets reality differently from those around them. Its main features are hallucinations (sensing things that are not there, such as hearing voices) and delusions (strongly held beliefs that are not based in reality), often with confused or disturbed thinking and a lack of insight that these experiences are not real. Psychosis is a symptom rather than a single illness, and can occur as part of conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, as a result of severe depression, or be triggered by drugs, alcohol, physical illness or extreme stress. A first episode often develops in late teens or early adulthood, sometimes with an earlier phase of subtle changes. It can be frightening for the person and those around them, but it is treatable, and early treatment improves outcomes.

How it is treated

Treatment combines medication and psychological and social support, tailored to the person and the underlying cause. Antipsychotic medicines help reduce hallucinations and delusions, and talking therapies (such as CBT for psychosis) and family support help recovery and relapse prevention. Early intervention services, which support young people through a first episode of psychosis, are particularly effective and aim to help people recover and stay well. Any underlying cause — such as a mood disorder, or drug or alcohol use — is addressed, and physical health is looked after. With the right support, many people recover from an episode of psychosis and go on to live full lives, though some need longer-term support. Involving the person, respecting their experience, and providing hope are important parts of care.