Introduction To Psychosis

We identify Psychosis as a psychological disorder where a person perceives reality differently from others. People with Psychosis often experience hallucinations, delusions, and negative thinking. As per a report by the National Institute of Mental Health, there is no one cause of Psychosis, and a combination of genetic predisposition, brain development differences, and stress or trauma can cause it. A person who has Psychosis struggles to function normally in day-to-day life and finds it challenging to participate in social activities. Some of the reasons for the same can be a drug use history or the result of a past chronic condition. Some often develop this condition as a side effect of drug use or substance use. Psychosis should be treated at the earliest as delayed treatment can worsen the symptoms and turn them into fatal ones. It can also lead to the development of suicidal thoughts or self-harming behavior. Therefore, it’s essential to have control of the condition before it surpasses the danger stage. There are, in total, 5 stages of Psychosis an individual passes through.

Understanding The 5 Stages Of Psychosis

1. Prodromal Stage (Early stage)

The prodromal stage is the initial stage of the 5 stages of Psychosis, where a person experiences unusual changes in their behavior. These changes may include uneasiness, excitement, hyperactivity, withdrawal from social situations, and talking in rambling rants. These changes are usually mild and do not require a full-blown diagnosis.

2. Acute Phase (Being Overwhelmed by the psychosis)

We categorize this stage as “critical” or “acute”. During the critical period, the initial symptoms become severe and turn into a complete psychotic episode. The symptoms of this episode include hallucinations, delusion, anxiety, and confrontation. It serves as a warning sign for the individual and their loved ones to be aware of behavior changes and take immediate action before things worsen.

3. Stabilization Stage (Struggling with psychosis vulnerability)

Decreased symptoms characterize this stage, increased overall well-being, and a return to some degree of control over one’s life. With continued treatment, appropriate self-care, and support from friends and family, the individual can fully recover from their post-traumatic stress symptoms. However, one needs to be careful not to let the symptoms get back, as relapse is quite common after the recovery.

4. Recovery Stage (Living with psychosis vulnerability)

Now that the crisis has passed, it’s time to move on to the next stage. Here, the person’s focus shifts from recovery to return to the “normal.” One of the questions that people may have at this stage is whether or not to continue taking medication. Another issue is that family and friends can start acting strange and overprotective. Doctors, counselors, and other healthcare providers can work with individuals at this stage to help them recover and be alert to future signs.

5. Long-term Management Stage (Life after psychosis)

The long-term management stage is the final stage of the 5 stages of Psychosis, where the person is fully aware of what has happened to them, what their condition is, and what to do if it happens again. It can take many months or even years to reach this point. However, this stage can be a compelling moment in a person’s life, where they become aware of their vulnerabilities and strengths and become mentally stronger.

Symptoms Of Psychosis

The 5 stages of Psychosis bring different warning signals of symptoms at each stage. As per the National Institute of Mental Health, one can identify the signs of psychotic disorder in a person through these symptoms.

• Changes in thinking, mood, and behavior frequently
• Trouble in processing of information or thinking clearly
• Dizzy thoughts and a confused state of mind
• Getting lost in delusions and hallucinations
• Mood swings are common, and one may feel unusually excited or depressed
• They behave differently than they usually do and act highly active or lazy
• Having difficulty communicating self-thoughts and opinions
• Difficulty in differentiating reality from fantasy

Treatment Options For 5 Stages Of Psychosis

The proper treatment for each of the 5 stages of Psychosis involves a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. The treatment plan best suited for an individual depends on their condition, stage, and medical history, as listed below.

1. Antipsychotics

It’s a medication that’s widely regarded as the first line of defense when it comes to treating Psychosis. According to research conducted by the National Institute of Health, it’s considered the gold standard treatment for psychiatric disorders and episodes. It works by blocking the action of the neurotransmitters in the brain that cause the disorder. However, it also has some side effects. Therefore, one should be extra cautious with its use on people who have cardiovascular disease and other long-term conditions.

2. Therapies

Various talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and group therapy, are used to treat psychosis. According to a study by NCBI, based on research trials, cognitive behavior therapy and family interventions effectively treat this disorder. It helps people become more vocal about their problems and better manage their symptoms.

3. Inpatient Care

During the critical stage, when a person’s behavior seems to be self-harming and suicidal, medical experts advise inpatient treatment to be a suitable treatment. Residential or inpatient psychosis treatment centers offer trained staff who create a safe environment for stabilization, intensive therapy, and preparation for returning to normal.

4. Rehabilitation Program

Rehabilitation develops skills and self-esteem that allow the person to recover from their Psychosis on their own. NCBI’s research explains the advantages of rehabilitation in the treatment of complex Psychosis. It improves social skills, which further helps the person return to their daily life more quickly.

Conclusion

After understanding these 5 stages of Psychosis, the next step should be to explore the stage of Psychosis one falls into. Every stage needs different attention and treatment plans. It is essential to understand each stage personally before beginning medication or treatment. Treatment efficiency depends not only on medications but also on one’s mindset throughout the healing process. So, let’s embark on this healing journey with compassion and positivity!

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