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What is psychosis?

Psychosis is characterized by an impaired relationship with reality. And it is a symptom of serious mental disorders People who are psychotic may have either hallucinations or delusions.

Hallucinations  are sensory experiences that occur within the absence of an actual stimulus. For example, a person having an auditory hallucination may hear their mother yelling at them when their mother isn’t around. Or someone having a visual hallucination may see something, like a person in front of them, who isn’t actually there. 

The person experiencing psychosis may also have thoughts that are contrary to actual evidence. These thoughts are known as delusions. Some people with psychosis may also experience loss of motivation and social withdrawal. 

These experiences can be frightening. They may also cause people who are experiencing psychosis to hurt themselves or others. It is important to see a doctor right away if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of psychosis. Recognizing the symptoms of psychosis

Symptoms of psychosis include: 

• Difficult concentrating 
• depressed mood 
• sleeping too much or not enough 
• Anxious 
• suspiciousness 
• withdrawal from family and friends 
• delusions
• hallucinations 
• disorganized speech, such as switching topics erratically
• Depressed 
• Suicidal thoughts or actions. What are delusions and hallucinations?
  Delusions and hallucinations are two very different symptoms that are both often experienced by people with psychosis. Delusions and hallucinations seem real to the person who is experiencing them.

  Delusions

  A delusion is a false belief or impression that is firmly held even though it is contradicted by reality and what is commonly considered true. There are delusions of paronida grandiose delusion and somatic delusions. 
  People who are experiencing a delusion of paranoia might think that they are being followed when they are not, or that secret messages are being sent to them. Someone with a grandiose delusion will have an exaggerated sense of importance. Somatic delusion is when a person believes they have a terminal illness when in reality they are healthy.