Understanding psychosis
Psychosis is a condition in which a person’s contact with reality is affected. They may hear, see or feel things that others do not (hallucinations), or hold strong beliefs that are not shared by others and do not change with evidence (delusions) — for example, feeling followed, controlled or targeted.
Psychosis is a set of symptoms rather than a single illness. It can occur in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or severe depression, after heavy use of cannabis, alcohol or other substances, with certain medical illnesses, or during periods of extreme stress or lack of sleep. It can also follow childbirth (postpartum psychosis), which needs urgent care.
With early treatment, many people recover well. Families play a vital role, and they are welcomed as partners in care.
Common signs
- Hearing voices or seeing things others don’t
- Strong suspicion or fear that others intend harm
- Unusual beliefs that seem out of character
- Confused or disorganised speech and thinking
- Withdrawing from family, friends and work
- Neglecting hygiene, sleep or meals
- Talking or laughing to oneself
- Sudden decline in studies or job performance
Having some of these signs doesn’t mean you have a condition. A professional assessment helps make sense of them.
When to see a psychiatrist
Early help makes a real difference. If a family member’s behaviour or beliefs have changed noticeably over days or weeks, please arrange a psychiatric consultation soon rather than waiting to see if it passes.
Seek emergency care if there is a risk of harm to self or others, if the person is not eating or drinking, or if psychosis appears after childbirth.
How treatment works at The Peaceful Mind
Assessment involves speaking with the person and, with consent, family members, and checking for medical or substance-related causes through examination and relevant tests.
Antipsychotic medicines are the mainstay of treatment and help reduce hallucinations and delusions. They are started carefully, side-effects are monitored, and the lowest effective dose is used. Alongside medicine, psychoeducation, family support, counselling and help returning to daily routine, studies or work are central to recovery.
Regular follow-up helps prevent relapse. If hospital admission is needed for safety, appropriate referral is arranged.
Talk to Dr. Vibha about psychosis
In-clinic in Ravet or online · English, मराठी, हिंदी · Confidential
Questions people ask
No. Psychosis is a group of symptoms that can occur in many conditions. Schizophrenia is one condition in which psychosis occurs, but not everyone who experiences psychosis has schizophrenia.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Vibha A. Bhide — {{TODO: confirm review & date}}