The problem faced by modern psychiatry is psychotic disorders. It is estimated that about 3% of the population will experience a psychotic episode, while between about 1.5% and 5.5% of people will meet the diagnostic criteria for a psychotic disorder. Not so long ago, the topic of psychotic disorders was a kind of taboo. It was associated with something incomprehensible, even dangerous. However, the development of medicine, and especially psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, has largely contributed to changes in the perception of people affected by this type of disorder.
What are psychotic disorders?
Psychotic disorders are serious mental illnesses. They are characterized by disorganized thinking, hallucinations, delusions and loss of contact with reality. These abnormalities can have different courses: progressive, chronic, transient or recurrent. Such disorders hinder daily functioning and require urgent diagnosis by a psychiatrist and the implementation of treatment.
Types of psychotic disorders
There are several types of psychotic disorders. The most important of them include:
- schizophrenia – a chronic disorder with delusions and auditory hallucinations,
- schizoaffective disorder – this is a combination of schizophrenia and mood disorders such as depression or mania,
- acute and transient psychotic disorders – often the symptoms appear suddenly under the influence of severe stress and last for a short time, up to a maximum of 3 months,
- exogenous (organic) psychoses – these disorders are caused by external factors, such as alcohol, drugs or even severe infections,
- delusional disorders (paranoia).
Symptoms of psychotic disorders
The most common symptoms of psychotic disorders include:
- hallucinations or so-called hallucinations – it is a sensory experience of non-existent things, such as visual hallucinations, tactile hallucinations or hearing voices,
- delusions or false beliefs – the sick person believes in them despite evidence that something is not true,
- sudden changes in behaviour – these are emotional reactions that are inadequate to the situation, as well as withdrawal from social life,
- disorganization of speech and thinking – the patient’s statements are chaotic, he has difficulties with logical thinking.
Symptoms of psychotic disorders lead to difficulties in distinguishing illusions from reality.
Psychotic disorders in children
Psychotic disorders can occur in children under 13 years of age. However, they are rare. They are characterized by detachment from reality and delusions. Children experience hallucinations. They may be convinced that they have superhuman powers. This condition requires immediate consultation with a psychiatrist and family therapy.
Treatment of psychotic disorders
A psychiatrist makes an appropriate diagnosis based on the collected history and observations. Treatment is based on psychotherapy and the administration of antipsychotic drugs. It is also often necessary to include relatives in psychoeducation. It should be noted here that early reporting to a specialist significantly increases the chance of effective therapy and a return to proper functioning. It is also worth taking advantage of the help of a support group. It is important to adapt the therapeutic plan to a specific situation and person.