Psychotic Disorders​

Psychotic disorders are a group of serious mental health conditions that affect the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. They are characterized by an impaired relationship with reality, and individuals may experience delusions (false beliefs), hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), disorganized thinking, and significant social or occupational dysfunction. Schizophrenia is one of the most known psychotic disorders, but the category also includes schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder, and brief psychotic disorder, among others.

While both psychotic and mood disorders affect mental health, they differ in their primary symptoms. Mood disorders primarily affect a person’s emotional state (e.g., depression and bipolar disorder) and may include episodes of extreme sadness, euphoria, or fluctuations between these extremes. Psychotic disorders, on the other hand, primarily impact a person’s grasp on reality. While mood disorders can have psychotic features, in psychotic disorders, the core issues are delusions and hallucinations without a significant mood component being present.

The exact cause of psychotic disorders is not fully understood, but a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors is believed to contribute. Genetics play a significant role, with a higher risk observed in individuals with a family history of psychotic disorders. Neurobiological factors, such as imbalances in brain chemistry and structural brain abnormalities, are also involved. Environmental factors, including prenatal exposure to viruses, malnutrition, or stress, as well as drug use or highly stressful events, can trigger or exacerbate psychotic disorders.

While most psychotic disorders are not curable, they are treatable. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of psychotic episodes, and improve the individual’s ability to function. With appropriate treatment, many people with psychotic disorders can lead fulfilling lives. Early diagnosis and treatment are often associated with better outcomes. Thrive’s mental health virtual IOP, based in Southern Florida is available to assist you now.