🧠 Psychosis & Schizophrenia Explained

Psychosis involves changes in how the brain interprets reality. Schizophrenia is a condition where psychosis and related symptoms occur over time and affect daily functioning.

Experiencing psychosis does not mean someone is dangerous or beyond help. These are medical conditions, and treatment can help.

❓ What Psychosis Is 

Psychosis refers to symptoms where a person has difficulty telling what is real and what is not.

It may include:

• Seeing or hearing things others don’t
  
  

• Strong beliefs that aren’t based in reality
  
  

• Confused or disorganized thinking
  
  

Psychosis can be brief, episodic, or longer-lasting, depending on the cause.

🧩 What Schizophrenia Is 

Schizophrenia is a brain-based condition that involves ongoing symptoms affecting thinking, perception, emotions, and behavior.

Symptoms often fall into three groups:

• Positive symptoms (added experiences like hallucinations or delusions)
  
  

• Negative symptoms (reduced motivation, emotional expression)
  
  

• Cognitive symptoms (trouble with attention, memory, or planning)
  
  

Not everyone experiences all symptoms

⚠️ Common Signs and Symptoms 

Psychosis-related symptoms may include:

• Hallucinations (hearing voices, seeing things)
  
  

• Delusions (fixed false beliefs)
  
  

• Disorganized speech or thoughts
  
  

Other symptoms may include:

• Social withdrawal
  
  

• Reduced motivation or pleasure
  
  

• Difficulty concentrating
  
  

Symptoms can change over time.

🧠 What’s Happening in the Brain 

Psychosis and schizophrenia involve changes in how the brain processes information and assigns meaning.

This may involve:

• Differences in brain chemicals related to perception and signaling
  
  

• Changes in brain networks that filter sensory input
  
  

• Difficulty distinguishing internal thoughts from external reality
  
  

These changes are biological, not personal failures.

🩺 How Psychosis & Schizophrenia Are Evaluated 

Evaluation usually includes:

• Detailed clinical interviews
  
  

• Observation of thinking, speech, and behavior
  
  

• Ruling out medical, substance-related, or medication causes
  
  

Diagnosis focuses on symptom patterns and duration.

💊 Common Treatment Options 

Psychosis and schizophrenia are treatable with ongoing care.

Treatment may include:

• Medications that help reduce psychotic symptoms
  
  

• Therapy focused on coping, insight, and daily functioning
  
  

• Support with routines, housing, or work when needed
  
  

Early treatment often leads to better outcomes.

🛠️ What Helps Day to Day 

Helpful supports may include:

• Consistent routines and sleep
  
  

• Stress reduction
  
  

• Supportive relationships
  
  

• Avoiding substances that worsen symptoms
  
  

Stability often improves with structure and ongoing support.

🚨 When to Seek Immediate Help 

Seek immediate help if symptoms include:

• Feeling unsafe or out of control
  
  

• Thoughts of harming yourself or others
  
  

• Severe confusion or inability to care for yourself
  
  

In the U.S., call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

➡️ What’s Next 

Psychosis and schizophrenia can be frightening, but treatment and support can help people live stable, meaningful lives.

You may also want to explore:

• Mood Disorders Overview
  
  

• Bipolar Disorder Explained
  
  

• Brain Networks
  
  

• Sleep & Mental Health
  
  

Understanding what’s happening in the brain can reduce fear and support recovery.