Psychotic Disorders

An estimated 100,000 young adults in the United States develop a psychotic disorder each year. If you or someone you love is experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or other unusual behavioral changes, you can find the compassionate care you deserve at Lifestream Behavioral Health. In addition to diagnostic evaluations, Dumo Marcus Opuiyo, NP, and the providers specialize in ongoing management plans for psychotic disorders through a telehealth platform. They take an empathetic approach and prioritize physical, mental, and emotional health. Call the New York office today to schedule an evaluation for symptoms of psychotic disorders or book an appointment online.

What are psychotic disorders?

Psychotic disorders are severe mental illnesses that trigger abnormal perceptions and thinking patterns that cause people to lose touch with reality.

Schizophrenia is a common type of psychotic disorder. The hallmark symptoms of this condition and other psychotic disorders are:

Delusions

Delusions are steadfast beliefs about something that isn’t true in reality, such as a person thinking they can become invisible. Beliefs persist even if there’s evidence against them being real.

Hallucinations

Hallucinations are sensory misperceptions that cause a person to feel, hear, see, taste, or smell something that isn’t there. These sensations are very real to the individual experiencing them and can cause distress.

Psychotic disorders can result from dysfunction in the brain. They can also be a side effect of substance use disorder or conditions like dementia, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease.

Lifestream Behavioral Health provides comprehensive care for adults with psychotic disorders. The providers focus on managing your symptoms, keeping you anchored in reality, and helping you cope with the challenges of life with a psychotic disorder.

When should I seek medical attention for psychotic disorders?

Schedule a consultation at Lifestream Behavioral Health if you or a loved one experience the hallucinations or delusions of a psychotic disorder or symptoms like:

• Restlessness and agitation
• Withdrawal from others or self-isolation
• Reduced emotional expression
• Disorganized thoughts or speech
• Reckless or erratic behaviors
• Lack of self-care

Symptoms of a psychotic disorder often begin in early adulthood and can worsen over time. Without treatment, schizophrenia and other conditions can increase risk factors for self-harm or suicidal thoughts or actions.

If you’re thinking of harming yourself, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or visit the nearest hospital emergency room.

How are psychotic disorders treated?

Lifestream Behavioral Health offers personalized treatment plans through a telehealth platform for adults with psychotic disorders that include:

Medications

Antipsychotic medications work on the neurotransmitters in the brain to ease the severity of hallucinations and delusions. Some medications are for short-term use, or you may need to take them for the rest of your life to manage your condition.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can help you identify unhealthy emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. Psychotherapy can also provide supportive resources to assist you and your loved ones in dealing with the challenges of psychotic disorders.

Call Lifestream Behavioral Health today to schedule an evaluation of psychotic disorder symptoms or book an appointment online.