Psychosis
Psychosis happens when a person loses touch with reality, seeing or hearing things that are not there or believing things that are not true. This can make daily life confusing and stressful. The causes of psychosis are not always simple.
Mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and some medical issues can all trigger psychosis. Other possible causes include brain injuries, trauma, serious stress, and certain medications. Sometimes, a mix of these factors may contribute to psychosis.
Definition Of Psychosis Causes
Psychosis has causes that can be complex. It is not a single illness, but a symptom of different problems. When someone experiences psychosis, their brain processes information in a way that changes their sense of reality. The causes of psychosis can be grouped into three main areas:
| Cause Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Mental Health | Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression |
| Medical Conditions | Brain injury, infections, dementia |
| Substance Related | Drug use, alcohol misuse, withdrawal |
Mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder often cause psychosis. People with these conditions may have hallucinations or delusions. Sometimes, medical problems cause psychosis. For example, brain injuries, severe infections, or neurological illnesses such as dementia can trigger symptoms.
Substance use can also lead to psychosis. Elicit drugs or even alcohol can cause psychosis, especially if misused or during withdrawal. Certain triggers, such as extreme stress, trauma, or lack of sleep, can also lead to brief psychotic episodes. Genetics may increase the risk, but not everyone with a family history will develop psychosis. Listed below are common psychotic disorders:
- Schizophrenia
- Schizoaffective disorder
- Brief psychotic disorder
- Delusional disorder
Possible Causes/Diseases Condition
Psychosis can have many different causes. Mental health conditions are a leading factor. Schizophrenia is one of the most common causes. People with bipolar disorder may also experience psychosis, especially during mood swings. Major depression with psychotic features or psychotic depression is another source.
Some neurodegenerative diseases can lead to psychosis. These include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other forms of dementia. In older adults, these conditions often increase the risk. Physical illnesses may also cause psychosis. HIV/AIDS, malaria, lupus, and multiple sclerosis are examples. Some people may develop psychosis after infections or as part of severe medical problems.
Substance use can also trigger symptoms. Misuse of drugs or alcohol, or withdrawal from them, may lead to psychosis. Postpartum psychosis can happen after childbirth, especially in people with a history of mood disorders. Episodes of mania in bipolar disorder can also include psychotic features. Some cases are connected to lack of sleep, certain prescription medications, or high stress. The table below summarizes some possible causes:
| Cause | Condition/Example |
|---|---|
| Mental Health Disorders | Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Depression |
| Neurodegenerative Diseases | Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Dementia |
| Physical Illnesses | HIV/AIDS, Malaria, Lupus, MS |
| Substance Use | Drug misuse, Alcohol use |
| Postpartum and Mania | After childbirth, Bipolar episodes |
| Other Factors | Sleep deprivation, Medications |
Other Non-Disease Causes
Psychosis is not always caused by diseases or medical conditions. Sometimes, outside factors can lead to psychotic symptoms in people who may not have an underlying illness. Substance use is a major non-disease cause. These substances can cause hallucinations, confusion, or paranoia even in healthy people.
Sleep deprivation or severe lack of sleep can lead to psychotic symptoms. If a person goes without sleep for an extended period, they might start seeing or hearing things that are not there. High levels of stress, anxiety, or trauma can sometimes cause psychosis. Traumatic events or ongoing abuse may increase a person’s risk, especially if they do not have good support. Here’s a quick look at common non-disease causes:
| Factor | Can Trigger Psychosis? |
|---|---|
| Stress | Yes |
| Trauma | Yes |
| Abuse | Yes |
| Cannabis | Yes |
| LSD | Yes |
| Cocaine | Yes |
| Amphetamine | Yes |
| Methamphetamine | Yes |
| MDMA/Ecstasy | Yes |
| Magic Mushrooms | Yes |
| Psilocybin | Yes |
| Ketamine | Yes |
| Sleep Deprivation | Yes |
| Anxiety | Sometimes |
How It Causes The Symptom
Psychosis changes how the brain processes information. This can affect what a person sees, hears, thinks, or believes. When the brain does not work properly, it can cause hallucinations. People may see, hear, or feel things that are not real.
Delusions are another common symptom. The brain mixes up what is real and what is not, leading the person to hold beliefs that do not match reality. For example, they may think someone is watching or plotting against them.
During a psychotic episode, a person may act in ways that seem strange or confusing to others. This disorganized behavior might include talking in a way that is hard to follow, having trouble completing tasks, or acting out in public. A quick look at the main symptoms:
| Symptom | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Hallucinations | Sensing things that are not there. |
| Delusions | Strong beliefs that are not based on reality. |
| Disorganized Behavior | Unusual or confusing actions. |
| Paranoia | Believing others mean harm without real proof. |
Paranoia can develop when the brain misreads social cues or overreacts to small events. This may lead someone to feel fearful or mistrustful of others without a good reason. These symptoms can come and go, and they may be mild or severe depending on the person and cause.
Possible Complications
Psychosis can cause problems in daily life. People may have trouble working, going to school, or keeping relationships. They might stop taking care of themselves, like forgetting to eat or bathe.
Untreated psychosis can sometimes make a person behave in risky ways. This can include self-harm or harm to others. In rare cases, people might need emergency help. Medical issues can also happen due to psychosis or its causes. Some people might develop complications such as:
- Malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Infections from poor self-care
- Injury from accidents or self-harm
- Stroke (especially if psychosis is linked to certain brain conditions)
Certain mental health problems, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, can lead to long-term disability. This may make people less able to live independently. Some medicines used to treat psychosis can cause side effects such as weight gain, tiredness, or changes in blood sugar and cholesterol, which might affect overall health.
If substance use causes psychosis, stopping the drug suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which also carry risks. Medical conditions such as dementia or Parkinson’s disease can make complications more severe. Families may feel stress or burden when caring for someone with psychosis.
When To Seek Medical Attention
Get medical help if someone has sudden changes in thinking, mood, or behavior that are not normal for them. Do not ignore signs like hearing voices, seeing things that are not there, or believing things that are clearly not true.
Seek medical evaluation if someone seems confused, struggles to communicate, or shows poor self-care. These symptoms can signal a serious issue with the brain or body. Call emergency services right away if:
- The person talks about harming themselves or others.
- There is violent or risky behavior.
- The person is unable to care for basic needs, like eating or bathing.
Some causes of psychosis need urgent treatment, such as brain injury, severe infections, or problems with the liver, kidney, or hormones. Other warning signs:
- Rapid mood changes
- Withdrawal from friends or family
- Losing touch with reality for hours or days
Doctors may run tests to find out what is causing psychosis. You should see a doctor quickly if psychosis is suspected, especially if other health issues are present.
