An Overview Of Brief Psychotic Disorder

When symptoms of psychosis occur for one month or less, they may signify brief psychotic disorder, a condition listed in the DSM-5 and ICD-11. Symptoms may include out-of-character behavior, hallucinations, delusions, and incoherent speech. In addition, the disorder has three subtypes, depending on the circumstances surrounding the condition. In some cases, people experience this condition more than once, but it is often temporary. Understanding this condition can help you determine whether it's occurring in your life and how to find support if needed.

What is brief psychotic disorder?

Brief psychotic disorder is a condition marked by psychosis lasting for one day to one month. 

Brief psychotic disorder symptoms can include:

A person experiencing brief psychotic disorder may experience one or more symptoms. However, the factor that separates brief psychotic disorder from other psychotic disorders is the time the person experiences the related symptoms. The symptoms of brief psychotic disorder last no longer than one month, whereas a person with another psychotic disorder can have ongoing symptoms.

Types of brief psychotic disorder

There are three distinct types of brief psychotic disorder, including the following.

Brief psychotic disorder with an obvious stressor

This type of psychotic disorder is often called brief reactive psychosis. When a person experiences a traumatic event like the death of a loved one or a natural disaster, they may briefly experience the psychotic symptoms above. In this case, the reason behind these symptoms is often apparent. 

Brief psychotic disorder with no obvious stressor

A psychotic disorder with no obvious stressor occurs when no traumatic or stressful event prompts psychosis. However, the symptoms only last one month or less and may not reoccur. 

Brief psychotic disorder with postpartum onset

This form of brief psychotic disorder is often called postpartum psychosis and occurs after the birth or adoption of a new child. It can occur a few days after birth or up to a year afterward. Parents experiencing postpartum psychosis may require inpatient support. Reach out to a professional if you're experiencing the symptoms above and have recently had or adopted a child. 

Who is at risk for brief psychotic disorder?

A combination of genetics, psychological risk factors, and the environment a person lives in may impact the risk. Brief psychotic episodes may most likely occur when a person is between 20 and 50 years old. It may also have a hereditary factor. In addition, those with another mental illness may be more likely to experience brief psychosis. Psychosis is often a symptom of bipolar disorder during manic episodes and may also last under a month, although it is not directly related to brief psychotic disorder. 

How is brief psychotic disorder diagnosed?

Proper diagnosis of mental health disorders can be critical to receiving treatment. A physical exam and lab tests can help doctors rule out other medical issues that could be causing the symptoms of brief psychotic disorder. Afterward, your doctor may refer you to a mental health provider for further symptom analysis. 

People who have experienced brief psychotic disorder may be at risk of experiencing depression as well. The symptoms of brief psychotic disorder can sometimes lead to harmful actions, such as violent behavior and suicidal thoughts. Seek proper diagnosis and treatment for any mental health concerns, including brief psychotic disorder and depressive psychosis, to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of harm to oneself or others.

Will brief psychotic disorder come back?

Although possible, brief psychotic disorder often occurs once or twice in an individual's life instead of reoccurring. Looking at the circumstances surrounding this diagnosis and your symptoms may help you assess the risk of further symptoms. For example, if your psychosis occurred due to grief, you might prepare for similar symptoms around future losses. If the psychosis occurred for no apparent reason, you might talk to a psychologist to develop a safety plan for the future. 

Potential methods of prevention of Brief Psychotic Disorder

If you have a history of mental illness in your family or have experienced brief psychotic disorder before, you may wish to consider your options for prevention, including but not limited to the following. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy 

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may keep brief psychotic disorder from occurring or returning in some cases. CBT allows individuals to examine how their thoughts impact their feelings and behavior. Reframing maladaptive thoughts may give you more control over your emotions and actions.

Social support: A key to recovery and treatment

Family and friends can play a role in recovering and preventing brief psychotic disorder. Studies have found that a solid support system is linked to improved mental health. Your loved ones can also learn what symptoms to watch for to help you receive treatment if needed. When experiencing psychosis, some people aren't able to connect with reality. A social system can help them return to reality or find a provider who can fully care for them during the episode. 

Postpartum psychosis experts 

If you have previously experienced brief psychotic disorder after giving birth, you may choose to discuss your options with a licensed professional before future pregnancies. In some cases, individuals choose to avoid future pregnancies altogether or adopt a child instead. 

Treatment options for brief psychotic disorder

Although brief psychotic disorder lasts for less than a month, waiting a month for symptoms to disappear might be risky before seeking professional help. Seek help immediately if you experience any symptoms of psychosis. 

Managing psychosis symptoms: Medication and therapy

The two primary forms of treatment for this disorder may include medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy. The latter can help people with brief psychotic disorder understand and work through how their thoughts may affect their behavior. This technique can help patients who have experienced trauma understand how their experiences might impact their mindset. 

A licensed medical professional may prescribe medication to alleviate the symptoms of brief psychotic disorder. However, consult your doctor before starting, changing, or stopping a medication.  

Finding support 

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may help to prevent brief psychotic disorder in some cases. However, traditional in-office therapy may not be convenient for everyone experiencing the aftermath of psychosis. Through an online platform like BetterHelp, you can connect virtually with a professional with experience in treating similar challenges. 

One study found that online CBT could effectively treat various mental health conditions. If you believe you'd benefit from working with a professional, online CBT can allow you to practice cognitive restructuring and other practices from home or any environment with an internet connection. 

Note that while online therapy can help individuals discuss the impacts of prior psychosis episodes or as a supplement to other treatments, it is often recommended to seek out in-person and immediate support if you are in crisis or actively experiencing hallucinations and delusions.