Can Psychosis Be Cured? Treatment Options And Prognosis

Psychosis is a mental state often associated with mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Psychosis usually involves a cluster of experiences indicating a disconnect from reality, such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized behavior. In most cases, psychosis occurs in episodes that can be interspersed with periods of recovery. Although there is not currently a cure for psychosis, the condition can be managed with a combination of doctor-prescribed antipsychotic medication, psychosocial support, and regular therapy sessions with a licensed mental health professional.

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What is psychosis? 

According to the Yale School of Medicine, people having a psychotic episode “can experience alterations in their perceptions of reality and can have difficulty thinking clearly as they normally would.” Psychosis can be accompanied by strange ideas, paranoia, and difficulty managing emotions. 

Symptoms of psychosis 

Psychosis is not a mental illness in and of itself but a mental state involving a break from reality. 

Psychosis usually involves a cluster of symptoms, including those discussed below: 

• Hallucinations: Hallucinations can be defined as sensory perceptions of nonexistent stimuli. For example, individuals experiencing hallucinations may hear voices no one else hears or see figures that aren’t present.

• Delusions: Delusions are generally described as firmly held false beliefs that are difficult or impossible to change, despite evidence to the contrary. 

• Disorganized speech and behavior: Disorganized speech can involve slurring words or repeating phrases that don’t make sense. Disorganized behavior might appear as a lack of response to external stimuli, unexpected movement, or unusual actions. 

• Paranoia: Paranoia can involve unwarranted fears of persecution, mistreatment, or death. 

Psychosis may also involve symptoms similar to those associated with other mental health conditions like depression. For example, someone might experience appetite changes, sleep changes, low mood, mood swings, numbness, and other mood-related symptoms. 

In addition, individuals may isolate themselves or withdraw from their social systems, as well as show signs of suspiciousness and “magical thinking” before an episode escalates into the acute phase.

The stages of psychosis 

Psychosis typically occurs in three stages or phases, including the prodromal phase, the acute phase, and the recovery phase. Each phase tends to be associated with certain symptoms and presentations. Below are further explanations of the usual stages of a psychotic episode: 

• Prodromal phase: In the prodromal phase, an individual may start to show personality changes, such as social withdrawal, suspiciousness, irritability, and mood swings. They may start to neglect their hygiene as well. 

• Acute phase: In the acute phase, an individual may experience more severe symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions, which can indicate a lack of connection to reality.

• Recovery phase: In the recovery phase of psychosis, a person usually starts to regain a sense of reality and may experience symptoms similar to those in the prodromal phase, such as changes in affect and difficulty caring for themselves. 

In general, psychosis treatment results in the best outcomes when begun in the early stages, as early intervention may prevent an acute episode from occurring. 

Causes of psychosis 

Psychosis can have various causes and is not always caused by mental illness. There is no one “underlying cause.” 

Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other types of psychosis-related mental illness

However, a few mental health conditions that are commonly associated with psychotic episodes include the following: 

• Schizophrenia

• Schizoaffective disorder

• Bipolar disorder 

• Major depressive disorder with psychotic features

• Brief psychotic disorder

• Postpartum psychosis

• Delusional disorder

Other challenges that may cause psychosis include physical illness, dementia, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), sleep deprivation, severe stress, and infections. Substance use and the use of some prescription medications may also cause psychosis. 

Can psychosis be cured? 

Symptoms of psychosis 

Individuals can often live functional lifestyles with the appropriate treatment, and symptoms may go into complete remission for some people. Those living with a mental illness like schizophrenia may be more likely to experience recurrent episodes. 

Understanding temporary psychosis 

Brief psychotic disorder typically involves a temporary episode of psychosis lasting less than one month that may or may not recur. As brief psychotic disorder is frequently brought on by acute stress or trauma, an individual may be less likely to experience recurrent episodes. However, talking to your doctor and treatment team about the prognosis of your diagnosis and symptoms can be beneficial. 

Treatment for psychosis

Psychosis is often manageable with the appropriate treatment and mental health interventions. Below are a few treatment options to consider. 

Medication management for a psychotic episode

Antipsychotic medications are often considered the first line of treatment for acute psychotic episodes. These medications often reduce or completely eliminate symptoms of psychosis like hallucinations and delusions, potentially enabling individuals to address mood- and self-care-related symptoms, like those related to sleep and hygiene. Other medications, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, may also be prescribed by a doctor or psychiatrist to address co-occurring conditions or symptoms. 

Some people with psychosis may have difficulty managing their own medications. Although updated evidence may be necessary, about 50% of people with schizophrenia fail to adhere to their medication plans as laid out by their prescribing providers. For this reason, a medication management program may be helpful. 

A medication manager can assist individuals in getting prescriptions and taking their medication on time. Some programs may have medication delivered to the client’s door, where a nurse or support worker can assist them in taking the medication as prescribed. 

Consult a medical doctor before starting, changing, or stopping a medication for any condition. The information in this article is not a replacement for medical advice or diagnosis.  

Crisis support services

An active psychotic episode is considered a mental health emergency. Crisis support services like acute inpatient care may be beneficial for individuals in an active episode. You may be able to receive these services through local crisis organizations, a hotline, or your local emergency room. 

Mental health support groups 

Support groups for schizophrenia and psychosis may also be helpful, allowing individuals to connect with others who understand or relate to their symptoms and experiences. Because social support can be so impactful to mental wellness, these groups can meet a basic need for those who don’t have much social support outside of their treatment team. The Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance (S&PAA) offers online self-help support groups for people with schizophrenia, psychosis, and psychotic disorders, as well as their loved ones. 

Self-care 

Self-care is not necessarily a form of treatment but may be helpful alongside traditional treatment options. Self-care practices can help individuals control their emotions, manage distress, and meet basic needs. Below are a few ideas to consider: 

• Nutritious eating: Eating nutritious and filling foods can be a way to care for your body and mind. Consider speaking to a registered dietician about an eating plan that works for you.

• Physical activity: Physical activity can improve mental well-being and release feel-good endorphins. 

• Social interaction: Social interaction, whether with family members, a therapist, or a support group, can reduce loneliness and isolation. 

• Hobbies: Finding an activity that brings you joy may allow you to connect with yourself and reduce emotional distress. 

If you are unable to partake in self-care, consider a mental health community center or local mental health recreational program for support. 

You deserve support in recovering from a psychotic episode

Talk to a licensed therapist online

Can psychosis be cured with therapy?

Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can be an effective prevention and recovery tool for those who have experienced psychosis. A therapist can help individuals draft safety plans, develop coping strategies, and find support systems. 

If you struggle to attend in-person therapy due to symptoms or other barriers, you might benefit from online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp. Clients can attend therapy from any location with an internet connection and choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions. However, those experiencing acute psychosis may require in-person care from a psychiatrist. 

The efficacy of online therapy

Studies generally support the effectiveness of online therapy for individuals with psychosis. One study, published in 2015 in HHS Public Access, found that individuals with schizophrenia who tried an online intervention group with their family members usually experienced decreased stress levels and a higher perceived level of social support after three months of treatment.