Understanding the Causes of Psychosis

January 17 2025 TalktoAngel 0 comments 305 Views

Psychosis is a term that is often thrown around in conversations about mental health, but for many people, it remains a misunderstood condition. The word "psychosis" generally refers to a state of mind where an individual loses touch with reality. This can manifest as hallucinations, delusions, disorganised thinking, or severe mood disturbances, making it difficult for the person to discern what is real from what is not. While psychosis can be a symptom of several different mental health disorders, it’s important to understand the underlying causes, as this can help individuals seek the right treatment and support.

In this blog, we will explore the various causes of psychosis, from genetic factors to trauma and substance abuse, and how support systems like TalktoAngel can provide the care and assistance needed for those struggling with this condition.

What Causes Psychosis?

Psychosis doesn’t just appear out of nowhere; it often arises from a combination of different factors, both internal and external. Understanding these causes can offer a clearer perspective on the condition and how to approach treatment and healing.

Genetic Factors and Family History:- One of the primary causes of psychosis is a genetic predisposition to mental health disorders. Individuals with a family history of psychotic disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of experiencing psychosis themselves. This suggests that genetics play a significant role in shaping our vulnerability to certain conditions. However, it’s important to note that genetics alone don’t guarantee that someone will experience psychosis; environmental factors can also play a critical role in triggering or worsening the condition.
Neurochemical Imbalance:- The brain is an incredibly complex organ, and sometimes, its chemistry can become imbalanced. Neurotransmitters, which are chemicals responsible for transmitting signals in the brain, can play a significant role in the development of psychosis. Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin have been linked to psychotic symptoms. For example, dopamine dysregulation is thought to contribute to conditions like schizophrenia, where hallucinations and delusions are common symptoms. A malfunction in how the brain processes these chemicals can lead to reality distortion.
Trauma and Stress:- Psychosis doesn’t only emerge from biological or genetic factors; it can also be triggered by psychological and emotional stress. Traumatic experiences, such as abuse, loss of a loved one, or overwhelming life changes, can affect an individual’s mental health and potentially lead to psychosis. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been shown to sometimes cause psychotic symptoms, particularly in individuals who have experienced significant trauma. Long-term stress can also cause the brain to react in ways that produce psychotic symptoms. The brain’s response to trauma can lead to dissociation or detachment from reality, which are common signs of psychosis.
Substance Abuse:-- Substance use is another major cause of psychosis. Certain drugs, especially hallucinogens and stimulants like LSD, methamphetamine, and cocaine, can induce psychotic episodes by altering the brain’s chemistry. Chronic use of alcohol or other substances, particularly during the formative years of young adulthood, can also lead to permanent brain changes that increase the risk of developing psychosis. Withdrawal from drugs can also cause symptoms of psychosis, which makes addiction and psychosis interlinked in some cases. The stress caused by addiction, along with changes in brain function, can be a recipe for serious mental health issues.
Mental Health Disorders:- Psychosis is often associated with specific mental health disorders, particularly schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. In these cases, psychosis can occur during episodes of extreme mood swings or emotional distress. For instance, in schizophrenia, individuals may experience chronic psychosis characterized by auditory or visual hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. In bipolar disorder, psychosis typically emerges during manic or depressive episodes, with individuals losing touch with reality. Even severe depression can lead to psychosis, where individuals may believe they are worthless or even have thoughts of death or harm.
Medical Conditions and Neurological Disorders:- Sometimes, psychosis is the result of underlying medical conditions, particularly neurological disorders. Conditions such as brain injuries, strokes, or brain tumours can impact the regions of the brain that govern cognition and perception, leading to psychosis. Infections that affect the brain, like encephalitis, can also cause psychotic symptoms. Additionally, certain chronic medical conditions like Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease may present with psychosis as the disease progresses. Even severe sleep deprivation or nutritional deficiencies can alter mental functioning to the point of psychosis.
Sleep Deprivation:- Believe it or not, a lack of sleep can be a significant trigger for psychosis. Sleep is essential for maintaining mental health, and extended periods of sleep deprivation can lead to cognitive impairments, including hallucinations and delusions. Many people who are severely sleep-deprived report experiencing psychotic-like symptoms, such as hearing voices or feeling paranoid. This is why it’s so important to maintain a healthy sleep schedule for both physical health and mental well-being.

How TalktoAngel Can Help

Psychosis is a deeply challenging condition that requires a multifaceted approach to treatment. While medical intervention, such as medication and therapy, is critical, having a reliable support system is just as important. TalktoAngel is one such platform that can offer professional help to those struggling with mental health issues, including psychosis. Their team of trained therapists and online counsellor are equipped with the knowledge and experience to guide individuals through difficult mental health challenges.

TalktoAngel provides an accessible and confidential space for people to seek support, regardless of the severity of their symptoms. Whether someone is experiencing their first signs of psychosis or has been struggling with it for some time, TalktoAngel offers the Best therapist and online counselling services tailored to individual needs. The platform’s easy-to-use interface allows users to connect with professionals at their convenience, ensuring that help is always available when needed. Furthermore, TalktoAngel emphasizes holistic care, addressing not only the symptoms of psychosis but also the root causes, such as trauma, Anger, or underlying mental health conditions.

Conclusion

Psychosis is a complex and multifactorial condition that can arise from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Whether it’s due to neurochemical imbalances, trauma, substance use, or mental health disorders, understanding the underlying causes can help individuals seek the right treatment. Platforms like TalktoAngel play a vital role in providing accessible, compassionate care, ensuring that those affected by psychosis can receive the support they need to heal and manage their symptoms. If you or someone you know is struggling with psychosis, don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals who can help navigate these challenges.

Contribution: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist, life coach & mentor TalktoAngel & Ms. Drishti Gakhar, Counselling Psychologist.

References

Aleman, A., Kahn, R. S., & Selten, J. P. (2011). Psychosis and the risk of developing schizophrenia: A systematic review. Psychological Medicine, 41(1), 21-32.
Harrison, G., & Glazebrook, C. (2014). Understanding psychosis: Its origins and treatment. Oxford University Press.
McCutcheon, R. A., & Howes, O. D. (2017). The dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia: Version III - the final common pathway. Schizophrenia Bulletin, 43(4), 1-16.
van Os, J., & Kapur, S. (2009). Schizophrenia. The Lancet, 374(9690), 635-646.