Psychosis

While the term psychosis has received a lot of negative attention and is often thought of occurring only within individuals diagnosed with Schizophrenia, it is in my opinion, one of the most widely misunderstood experiences by both the general public and mental health providers. 

Psychosis is a broad term referring to a loss of touch with reality that is most commonly marked by symptoms of hallucinations (seeing or hearing things not physically present) and delusions (strongly held, false beliefs that are not amenable to logic). While symptoms of psychosis are seen in diagnoses of Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder, they can also be present in extreme mood states (either depression or mania), trauma responses, or underlying medical conditions. 

It is important to find a qualified clinician proficient in working with individuals experiencing various forms of psychosis to help provide diagnostic clarification and effective treatment without overpathologizing the experience.