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Psychosis, often mistakenly used interchangeably with “schizophrenia”, is in fact one of the hallmark characteristics of schizophrenia. Research found that about 2.47% of the Hong Kong Chinese adult population experience a lifetime diagnosis of psychotic disorders. As early identification and treatment can mitigate the impairment caused by psychosis and prevent further complications, it is essential to be aware and look out for the early warning signs.
Learn more about the causes, symptoms and diagnosis of psychosis and get tips for managing the condition in Hong Kong in this article.
Psychosis is a condition that affects the brain’s ability to process information, consequently resulting in impaired contact with reality. During psychotic episodes, the individual may experience altered perceptions and thoughts, failing to distinguish between the reality and illusory disturbances.
The onset of psychosis is averaged at the age of 24 in a 2011 USA study. Apart from schizophrenia, psychosis may be a symptom of different disorders manifested by an individual. In general, mental or physical conditions, stresses and traumas can lead to the onset of psychosis.
There are 2 significant symptoms of a psychotic episode:
The perception-like experience exists in the absence of external stimulation of the related sensory organ. It should be carefully distinguished from illusions, in which the real external stimulus is misperceived or misinterpreted. Below are some common examples of hallucinations:
It is a false belief based on incorrect interpretations about the concrete external reality (also known as material reality), including cultures or social norms, which may contradict the reality, belief of most people or acknowledged proofs. Bear in mind that not all mistaken beliefs are delusions: only when such mistaken belief incorporates an irrational value judgment that defies rational judgment would it be considered a delusion. Delusions can be divided into different categories. Common types of delusions include:
Although causes of psychosis are still being studied for a better understanding and management of the condition, research suggests that psychosis has been found to be a complicated condition manifested from the interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Below are the leading causes:
There are neither specific criteria nor biological tests for an individual to be diagnosed. It is best to seek advice from a psychologist, psychiatrist or other mental health professionals through a psychiatric evaluation.
As psychosis rarely sets in suddenly, psychiatrists caution to beware of the following signs:
Further clinical examinations can help clinicians rule out other possible medical conditions that might explain the symptoms. The personal report of an individual about his/her experiences or background such as family history and drug use, would be considered by clinicians as well.
It is paramount for an individual to be treated as early as after the first episode of psychosis. The consulted clinician may recommend coordinated specialty care (CSC), a recovery-oriented treatment for people with first-episode psychosis. Besides, the following treatments can help treat psychosis:
Please note that psychosis treatments, particularly antipsychotic medications, along with their side effects, need to be examined and conducted carefully by a clinician or healthcare provider.
If you are looking for professional advice, you may reach out to the services below:
Hospital Authority E.A.S.Y. Programme
Hotline: 2928 3283
Available languages: Cantonese, English
Early Psychosis Foundation
Hotline: 6075 6504
Available language: Cantonese
Jockey Club Early Psychosis (JCEP) Project
Hotline: 2255 4486
Available languages: Cantonese, English
If you need immediate support, please do not hesitate to reach out for professional help. Below is a list of hotlines with 24-hour support:
The Samaritans
Hotline: 2896 0000
Available languages: English, Cantonese, Mandarin
Suicide Prevention
Hotline: 2382 0000
Available language: Cantonese
The Samaritan Befrienders Hong Kong
Hotline: 2389 2222
Available language: Cantonese
Psychosis can be caused by mental or physical disorders, such as schizophrenia or brain tumor. Also, it is possible to experience psychosis as a consequence of traumas and taking recreational drugs.
There is currently no cure for psychosis. However, various treatments such as psychotherapies and medications can help with managing the conditions effectively.
Psychosis is one of the symptoms associated with schizophrenia. Nevertheless, many other mental or physical disorders can also result in psychosis, such as other psychotic disorders.
This article was independently written by Healthy Matters. It is informative only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be relied upon for specific medical advice.
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