Understanding Psychosis: Voices, Causes, and Recovery

Psychosis is a condition that changes how a person thinks and feels, and it often includes hallucinations and delusions. People may hear voices that comment on actions or tell them to do things, and they may hold beliefs that others find clearly false. Research has shown a link between heavy cannabis use and a higher risk of psychosis, and sleep loss or other drugs can also trigger symptoms. Although psychosis can be frightening, many people recover when they get timely care.

Treatment is usually a combination of antipsychotic medicine and talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis (CBTp). Family support and peer groups are often used while early intervention services aim to reduce long-term harm. However, worldwide many people do not receive specialist care, and services are being expanded in some countries. Therefore, recognizing early signs and seeking help may improve outcomes; furthermore, clinicians will assess medical causes before deciding a treatment plan.