Psychosis

Psychosis affects people differently, but in general, it can cause disruptions to a person’s thinking, perception, emotions, and behavior. Common symptoms to look out for include: 

• Hallucinations: People may hear, see, or feel things that aren’t there.  

• Delusions: People may have strongly held false beliefs that don’t align with reality, such as thinking that someone is trying to harm them or believing that they have special powers. 

• Disorganized thinking: People may have trouble organizing their thoughts, which can lead to speech that is difficult to follow or that jumps between unrelated topics. 

• Disorganized or unusual behavior: A person’s behavior may become erratic, inappropriate, or out of character, which can interfere with everyday tasks or responsibilities. 

• Emotional changes: A person might display emotions that don’t match the situation, show a lack of emotional expression, or struggle to understand and express their feelings. 

• Social withdrawal: Many people who suffer from psychosis withdraw from their family, their friends, or social situations and often feel disconnected from others or from reality itself. 

• Cognitive impairment: People may experience difficulties with their focus, memory, or decision-making. 

• Changes in sleep or self-care: People may begin to noticeably neglect their personal hygiene or experience significant disruptions to their sleep patterns. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with psychosis, it is important to seek professional help at a reputable mental health treatment center like Turning Point. It is best to seek treatment as soon as possible, because early treatment can lead to better outcomes. 

While specific rates of how many people struggle with psychosis are limited, broader national data on mental illness can provide some insight into how common it is. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), millions of people are affected by mental illnesses every year. In 2021, 22.8% of adults in the U.S. had a mental illness, and 5.5% had a serious mental illness, a category that includes disorders known to cause psychosis, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.  

It is important to note that psychosis can also affect people who don’t have a formal mental health diagnosis and can be triggered by factors such as substance use, trauma, and other mental health or medical concerns. Receiving a diagnosis and care at a professional mental health facility that is equipped to treat psychosis can be important first steps on a person’s healing journey. At Turning Point Centers in Utah, we are here to support you when you are ready to start that journey. 

Psychosis can have different causes or triggers. People who struggle with substance use or high stress are more likely to have psychosis, as are people who have mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. Despite the challenges it can pose, psychosis is highly treatable. With professional treatment, people can learn ways to manage their symptoms and work toward improving their quality of life. 

Psychosis can significantly impact a person’s life, affecting their thoughts, emotions, relationships, and ability to function. If psychosis is left untreated, its potential effects include: 

• Physical health concerns: People may begin to neglect their self-care, including their hygiene, eating, or sleep, which can all have a negative effect on their physical well-being. 

• Emotional distress: When they are experiencing hallucinations or delusions, people can feel afraid, anxious, depressed, or frustrated.  

• Disruption of daily life: Psychosis can interfere with a person’s ability to work, study, or carry out their daily tasks. 

• Strained relationships: Psychosis can cause misunderstandings or mistrust between people and their loved ones, which can lead to isolation or social withdrawal. 

• Increased risk for harm: In severe cases, psychosis may cause people to harm themselves, have suicidal thoughts, or engage in unsafe behaviors. 

• Long-term impact: If a person does not receive professional treatment for psychosis, long-term effects could include chronic mental health concerns, difficulties maintaining employment, or housing instability. 

With timely and appropriate treatment, however, many people can learn to manage the symptoms of psychosis and work toward regaining stability in their lives.  

Receiving treatment for psychosis can improve a person’s overall well-being. With the right care, people who have psychosis can reduce or eliminate distressing symptoms like hallucinations and delusions, making it easier for them to think clearly and connect with reality. Treatment for psychosis can also help people manage stress, build coping skills, and strengthen their relationships with family and friends. Therapy and alumni support services can empower people to better navigate daily challenges and fulfill their responsibilities at school, work, or home. Treatment can also help restore a person’s sense of purpose and independence. Most importantly, effective psychosis treatment can improve a person’s long-term outlook, allowing them to move forward on their healing journey with hope and confidence. 

Effective treatment for psychosis typically combines different services, including therapy and medication, which are customized to meet each person’s unique needs. At Turning Point Centers in Utah, an experienced behavioral healthcare provider will work with you to customize your treatment plan based on your individual symptoms and medical history. 

One commonly used treatment for psychosis is a type of medication called an antipsychotic, which can help balance a person’s brain chemistry. Antipsychotic medications are commonly used to address symptoms including hallucinations and delusions. However, at Turning Point, whether you receive medication as part of your treatment is always up to you. If you are seeking medication-assisted treatment for psychosis, an expert will work with you to select the most suitable medication for you. 

Therapy can also play a crucial role in helping people manage symptoms of psychosis. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people understand and cope with their symptoms, challenge their unhelpful thought patterns, and develop strategies for managing stress and triggers. Family therapy sessions can provide education and support for loved ones. We also offer additional services, including holistic therapy options, alumni programming, and supported housing, which can help people who have psychosis navigate daily challenges and regain their independence.  

At Turning Point, we will work with you or your loved one to create a comprehensive treatment plan that effectively addresses psychosis. Here, our mission is to walk beside you on your unique path to healing and to support you every step of this journey. 

When you choose Turning Point Centers for psychosis treatment, you are choosing to partner with a caring and skilled team that is committed to helping you improve your overall well-being. At Turning Point, we believe in treating the whole person and not just their symptoms. Our customized treatment options include evidence-based therapies and medications (as needed) that can help you feel more balanced and independent as you work toward regaining control of your life and symptoms.  

Our boutique treatment setting, located in picturesque Sandy, Utah, provides stunning views of the Salt Lake Valley and Wasatch Mountains. The natural beauty surrounding our facility lends itself to a tranquil and peaceful environment where you can relax, heal, and grow. When you are ready to begin your journey toward wellness, our compassionate team at Turning Point Centers is here to support you. 

This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Turning Point Centers.