Schizophrenia and psychosis are complex mental health conditions that affect millions of people around the world.

Psychosis is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. It involves a loss of contact with reality and can occur in the context of various mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. Psychosis can also be induced by substance use or medical conditions.

The main symptoms of psychosis include:

• Hallucinations: Sensory experiences that appear real but are created by the mind. They can affect all five senses, but auditory hallucinations (hearing voices) are the most common.

• Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs that are not based in reality. Common delusions include paranoia, grandiosity, and belief in having special powers or identities.

• Disorganized Thinking: People with psychosis may have trouble organizing their thoughts. Their speech may be garbled or hard to understand.

• Disorganized or Abnormal Motor Behavior: This can range from agitation to catatonia (lack of movement or response).

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia may seem like they have lost touch with reality, which can be distressing for both them and their loved ones. The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors.

Symptoms of schizophrenia typically fall into three categories: positive, negative, and cognitive.

• Positive Symptoms: These are psychotic behaviours not generally seen in healthy people. They include hallucinations, delusions, thought disorders, and movement disorders.

• Negative Symptoms: These are disruptions to normal emotions and behaviours. Examples include reduced expression of emotions, difficulty in beginning and sustaining activities, and reduced speaking.

• Cognitive Symptoms: These symptoms affect memory and thinking processes. They include poor executive functioning, trouble focusing or paying attention, and problems with working memory.

Treatment for psychosis often depends on its underlying cause. Medications are commonly used, and psychological treatments like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help individuals understand and manage their symptoms.

While there is no cure for schizophrenia, it can be managed with a combination of medications, psychological treatment, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their functioning. Support services such as housing support and employment assistance can be beneficial.

Schizophrenia and psychosis are serious mental health conditions that can have far-reaching effects on an individual's health and quality of life. At ClearStream Psychology, we perform a thorough assessment to explore your history and symptoms, and help you make sense of what you’re dealing with. Then we collaborate with you to develop a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and treatment goals using effective therapeutic strategies supported by research. With the right support and strategies, you can learn to manage your symptoms and make meaningful improvements to your well-being. Let us help you get back into the flow of life!