Psychotic disorders can include a range of conditions including Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Drug-induced Psychosis, Delusional Disorder and Psychosis NOS. There are many theories about the onset of psychosis including genetics, substances, social disadvantage, childhood adversity, personality, and neurological vulnerability. The stress-vulnerability model is a useful model to assist in understanding the onset as well as preventing relapse.
Symptoms can be varied but generally impair thoughts, emotions and behaviours so that the ability to differentiate the inside world from external reality is lost. Experiences can include hallucinations, delusions, disturbed thinking, disorganised behaviours and social/emotional withdrawal. Insight and judgement can become impaired so that behaviours become disturbed, risky, abnormal or dysfunctional.
Management requires correcting any physical causes, managing risk, treating the psychotic symptoms with medication, learning strategies and reducing the impact on one’s life. Understanding the disorder and monitoring for symptoms reduces the potential for recurrence and maximises the long-term quality of life. Working together to find the right medication and management plan is the key to success.
We are here to assess, treat, reassure, help and support you and your family.