The term psychosis is used to describe conditions which affect the mind, where the person has also at times lost contact with reality. When someone becomes ill in this way it is called a psychotic episode.

Psychosis is most common in young adults and affects around 3 out of every 100 people. It can happen to anyone and like any other illness it can be treated. Most people make a full recovery from the experience.

Symptoms of Psychosis

Changes in Thinking

Psychosis often affects a persons thinking for example, everyday thoughts may become confused, they may have difficulty concentrating; following a conversation, or remembering things. Thoughts may seem to speed up or slow down.

Unusual Beliefs

It is common for someone experiencing a psychotic episode to hold unusual beliefs, which can be known as delusions. The person can often become so convinced of their belief, that even the most logical argument will not make them change their mind. For example, someone may be convinced from the way cars are parked outside their house that they are under surveillance by the police.

Hallucinations

People often hear, feel, smell or taste something that is not actually there. For example, they may hear voices which no one else can hear, or see things which aren’t there. Food may taste or smell as if it is bad or even poisoned.

Changes in Emotions

How someone feels may change for no apparent reason. They may feel strange and cut off from the world as if they are moving in slow motion. Mood swings are common and they may feel unusually excited or depressed. Additionally emotions may seem dampened - they may feel less than they used to, or show less emotion to those around them.

Changes in Behaviour

People with psychosis tend to behave differently from the way they usually do. They may be extremely active or lethargic e.g. sitting around all day. They may laugh inappropriately or become angry or upset with no apparent cause. Often, changes in behaviour are associated with the symptoms already described above. For example, someone may stop eating because they are concerned that their food has been poisoned, or they may have trouble sleeping because they are scared of something.

Symptoms of Psychosis vary from person to person and may change over time.

What Is First Episode Psychosis?

First-episode psychosis simply refers to the first time someone experiences psychotic symptoms or a psychotic episode. People experiencing a first episode psychosis may not understand what is happening. The symptoms can be extremely disturbing and unfamiliar, leaving the person confused and distressed. This distress may be increased by negative myths and stereotypes about mental illness, which are still common in the community.

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