Psychosis

Alternative names:

psychotic

Treatment:

Treatment varies depending on the cause of the psychosis. Care in a hospital is often needed. Drugs that affect mental functioning or behavior (called psychotropic drugs or antipsychotic drugs) are sometimes helpful. Psychotherapy is helpful for some psychotic disorders.

Expectations (prognosis):

The expectations for the outcome vary with the specific disorder. Many of the disorders are able to be controlled with treatment, but the treatment often needs to be long-term.

Complications:

The psychosis often prevents the person from functioning normally.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider or mental health professional if a member of your family exhibits behavior that shows the person has lost contact with reality.