Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders

A group of mental illnesses characterized by a disconnect from reality are known as psychotic disorders. They can be extremely challenging for those going through them and their loved ones.

These disorders represent a class of mental health conditions categorized by disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, emotions, and behaviors. These disorders significantly impact a person’s ability to interpret reality, often leading to social and occupational functioning disturbances. Among these, schizophrenia stands out as a complex and often misunderstood condition.

• Schizophrenia: Schizophrenia is conceivably the most widely recognized psychotic disorder. The symptoms typically emerge in late teens or early adulthood. Symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, reduced emotional expression, social withdrawal, and cognitive deficits. Treatment for schizophrenia often combines antipsychotic medications, psychosocial interventions, and support services to manage symptoms and enhance daily functioning.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: Schizoaffective disorder shares symptoms of schizophrenia and mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorder. It is similar to schizophrenia but with a shorter duration of symptoms.  Individuals suffering from this disorder experience psychotic symptoms in conjunction with mood disturbances, such as major depressive or manic episodes. Treatment may involve a combination of antipsychotic medications and mood stabilizers, along with psychotherapy to address both mood and psychotic symptoms.
• Brief psychotic disorder: Sudden onset of an episode of psychosis lasting for a brief period typically less than a month, often triggered by severe stress, trauma, substance use, or other psychosocial factors. Even though the duration is short, individuals with this disorder may benefit from supportive interventions and therapy to address underlying stressors.
• Delusional Disorder: Delusional Disorder involves persistent fixed false beliefs and non-bizarre delusions without the presence of other psychotic symptoms. These delusions often center on harassment, splendor, or jealousy. Treatment may involve antipsychotic medications and psychotherapy, with a focus on challenging and modifying delusional beliefs.