Recognizing Psychosis In Children: Early Signs And Symptoms

Children and teenagers often move through complex emotions and behaviors as they develop. It can be hard for parents and caregivers to distinguish between temporary phases and potential signs of mental illness. 

Psychosis can be a concerning mental state. It usually involves changes in how a child sees, hears, and comprehends the world around them. Early identification and help can offer the best possibilities for supporting a child experiencing psychosis.

Even subtle changes in a child can indicate deeper concerns. It can be understandable to want to shield a child from any type of distress. However, if you suspect a mental health condition like psychosis is developing, waiting to take action can make things harder. Understanding the early indicators can empower you to put your child on the path to diagnosis and support. Speaking with a therapist can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about the situation.

What is psychosis?

There are many potential causes of psychotic symptoms, including mental illnesses like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Psychosis could also be a temporary reaction to certain medications, substance use, or medical problems. 

Symptoms of psychosis in children and adolescents

Children and adolescents experiencing psychosis may have some common symptoms:

• Hallucinations: These can refer to seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, or feeling things that aren't there. Hearing voices can be a common example.
• Delusions: Delusions can be defined as false beliefs that a child strongly holds, even when there is clear evidence to the contrary. They may experience paranoia or believe someone is out to get them.

Psychosis can be a serious condition, but that doesn't mean there's no hope. The sooner the cause is explored, the better the chances of getting appropriate support may be.

Warning signs of psychosis in children

Sometimes, the signs of psychosis in children and teens emerge gradually. Other cases involve a more sudden onset. These early signs aren't necessarily specific to psychosis; they could indicate other mental health disorders. A mental health professional can assess symptoms and patient history to provide an accurate diagnosis. 

Behavioral and social changes brought by psychosis in children

• Declining school performance: Grades may drop significantly, or a child previously invested in school may show disinterest.
• Trouble concentrating: Focusing on tasks or conversations may become harder.
• Sleep disturbances: Falling asleep, staying asleep, and oversleeping can all be potential problems.
• Emotional changes: Your child might seem emotionally flat or demonstrate outbursts of anger and irritability that are out of character.
• Social withdrawal: Previously outgoing children may lose interest in friends and activities.
• Suspicion or mistrust: Your child may express fearfulness or seem watchful, as though guarding themselves against a threat that you can't see.

Other changes that psychosis disorder can bring to your child

As psychosis progresses, the symptoms typically become more noticeable. Along with the early signs, be mindful of these additional changes:

• Disorganized speech: Responses to questions may not make logical sense or may be fragmented and hard to follow.
• Strange beliefs: A child might express unusual and insistent ideas that seem far-fetched, such as believing they possess special powers.
• Inappropriate expressions of emotion: Laughter or crying at inappropriate times are possible indicators.
• Neglecting personal hygiene: Bathing, dressing neatly, and other self-care tasks may be ignored.

Psychosis doesn't manifest the same way in everyone. Some children might display subtler signs that can be overlooked or misunderstood.

• Changes in sensitivity: Your child may become highly sensitive to light, sound, or touch.
• Odd motor behaviors: Your child might hold an inappropriate or bizarre posture, display abnormal motor behavior like repetitive, useless, and excessive movement, or seem rigid and unresponsive.
• Expressions of confusion: Your child may ask questions indicating they're struggling to understand what's happening around them or in their own mind.

It can be difficult to see your child experiencing something you don't understand. Every child is different, and that also applies to the ways in which mental health challenges might present. Consulting with a doctor can help you find an appropriate way to move forward.

Negative symptoms of psychosis in a child

Most discussions of psychosis center on dramatic symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. Yet, there's another category of potential symptoms to consider called "negative symptoms." These can describe decreases or absences in typical behaviors and responses. 

A child with negative symptoms might exhibit:

• Limited speech or a tendency to speak very little
• A lack of emotionality or a flat facial expression
• A lack of motivation or a sense of apathy
• Social withdrawal and decreased enjoyment of activities

It may be hard to know what to do when you're worried about your child's mental well-being. Getting a thorough assessment is often a good place to start. Pinpointing the cause of these symptoms can be tricky, so seeking expert input can provide an accurate diagnosis.

The sooner a child with significant symptoms of a psychotic illness receives appropriate support, the better their outlook is likely to be. Research shows that early psychosis treatment programs often have encouraging results in helping children and young people manage their symptoms. The right therapeutic approach and, in some cases, antipsychotic medications, can improve a child's function. Early support may also decrease the risk of a child experiencing a full-blown psychotic episode in early adulthood, when the symptoms are often more severe.

Support strategies for parents and caregivers of children with psychosis disorder

Learning your child is experiencing psychosis can be incredibly difficult. You're likely experiencing a mix of worry, fear, and uncertainty. However, there's support available for you and your child. Here are some strategies to help you navigate the situation.

• Seek information: The more you understand, the better you may be able to advocate for your child. You can learn more about psychosis from reputable sources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
• Connect with support groups: Finding other parents and families going through similar experiences may allow you to exchange stories, concerns, and advice.
• Focus on communication: Talking openly with your child in age-appropriate ways can reassure them that they aren't at fault.
• Maintain a nurturing environment: Children and adolescents usually need stability and structure more than ever during times of mental health challenges.
• Prioritize self-care: Parenting a child with mental illness can be stressful, but you shouldn't ignore your own needs. Self-care can help you stay strong and resilient.

Things might seem uncertain right now, but there are steps you can take to regain control. Knowing more about the condition can empower you to be your child's strongest advocate.

Navigating school and the role of family 

Psychosis can cause significant disruption in many parts of a child's life. Collaborating with the school system may be a step to consider. You can talk to administrators about accommodations like extra time for assignments, a quiet testing space, or help transitioning between classes. Many schools offer mental health resources and support on campus. Navigating the school environment successfully can reduce stress for your child.

You shouldn't feel like you must handle this on your own. There are organizations specializing in helping kids with serious mental health needs. Exploring these community programs could be beneficial for your child and the entire family. 

When a child experiences psychosis, it can also affect everyone around them. Siblings may have a range of reactions – concern, confusion, anger, and embarrassment are just a few. Open communication with all family members may be helpful. Explaining the situation in age-appropriate ways and answering any questions can help siblings feel less fearful and more supportive. A therapist can also guide you in having conversations with your child's siblings to help them understand and cope with the changes they see.

You play a role in helping your child through this experience. While psychosis can be challenging, kids can recover and go on to live fulfilling lives — especially with the right treatment and your unwavering support. The road ahead may seem unpredictable, but getting help can be a positive step forward.

Is your child experiencing concerning mental health symptoms?

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Treatment for mental health problems such as psychosis

Online therapy can make things easier by helping you connect with a therapist who can offer parenting advice and guidance in navigating your child’s psychotic symptoms. You can schedule appointments at times that work for you, even outside of typical office hours, and attend them via video conference, phone call, or online chat. 

According to a 2020 study, remote therapy for caregivers of individuals with psychosis typically resulted in decreased stress levels and a sense of being empowered to turn mental health knowledge into action. This may be particularly helpful for parents navigating their child’s experience of psychosis.

Every child is unique, and their treatment journey likely will be, too. Assessing psychotic illness in children usually requires specialized skills, experience, and knowledge. Through collaborative efforts between parents, professionals, and the support of family and community programs, children with psychosis can get the help they need and deserve.