What Are The Different Types of Psychosis?

Psychosis is a very serious mental health problem that has a significant impact on the life of an individual.

Psychosis is generally defined as a state where an individual sees, perceives or interprets things in markedly different ways to others, leading them to seemingly lose touch with reality.

Psychotic episodes are commonplace in a host of mental health conditions. In this article, we provide a general overview of the conditions associated with psychosis.

What is Psychosis?

Psychosis: Psychosis is a very serious mental health problem that causes an individual to see, perceive or interpret things in very different ways to others. The most well-known signs of psychosis are hallucinations and delusions. Those who suffer from psychosis are said to “lose touch” with reality. Psychosis is a very serious problem that can have severe repercussions on both the individual suffering, and those around them. In rare cases, psychosis can be a positive thing – with some suggesting they can hear the voices of dead loved ones. Unfortunately, the majority of people have serious ill health when suffering from symptoms of psychosis. Psychosis itself isn’t a mental health condition, though is a key part of mental health, and plays a role in several conditions where psychotic episodes are common.

What are the different types of Psychosis?

Delusional Disorder: This condition involves an individual having one or more delusions that are present for at least a few weeks. The person will have irrational beliefs, and be steadfast in their belief of the delusion. However, they will not exhibit any other form of psychosis, such as hallucinations. It is a rare disorder, but is sometimes seen.

Brief Psychotic Disorder: Brief Psychotic Disorder is a condition characterised by a short-term episode of psychosis, which, following the conclusion of the episode, will see the individual involved return to their normal level of functioning. It is a rare condition, but can cause distress. In many cases, it will be the first sign of a more severe psychotic disorder, but it can also be a one-off experience.

Shared Psychotic Disorder: Shared Psychotic Disorder is a rare, yet serious condition that involves an individual imposing a delusional belief onto someone else. The person who initially has a delusion will typically have a close relationship with the affected individual – who will begin to follow the same delusion. It is often seen in cases where a couple are socially isolated.

There are a range of other conditions that include elements of psychosis. These are covered in other sections though. These include, but are not limited to:

• Schizophrenia
• Schizoaffective Disorder
• Schizophreniform Disorder
• Bipolar Disorder
• Psychotic Depression
• Paranoid Personality Disorder
• Schizotypal Personality Disorder
• Substance-related Disorders

Summary

Psychosis forms a key part of mental health. A range of conditions are associated with it, making it crucial for a person to receive treatment.

The earlier that treatment is sought – the better the chances of recovery. Treating psychosis is challenging, but is very important.

See Also

• What Are The Different Types of Psychosis?
• What Are The Symptoms of Psychosis?
• What Are The Causes of Psychosis?
• How is Psychosis Diagnosed?
• How Can Psychosis be Treated?
• What is the Prognosis for Psychosis?
• 10 Tips for Living With Psychosis