A psychotic disorder can’t be self-diagnosed. Mental illness has varied and different symptoms, requiring a qualified professional to thoroughly investigate and determine a successful method for proper diagnosis.
All aspects of mental illness symptoms need to be analyzed to find out the most appropriate way of treatment.
Some common signs and symptoms of a psychotic disorder should prompt an individual to try to find professional help.
Psychotic Disorder Key Indicators
- Lack of Emotion — A person is visibly emotionally isolated from others. The individual may appear uncaring and cold toward others. They may also have difficulty maintaining relationships. Their interaction and responses may lack understanding and empathy.
- Delusions — Delusions penetrate a person’s manner of thinking, rather than his or her physical observations. Even though a delusion may have some merit, the person may have ideas or thoughts that have grown into something that can’t possibly be real. The individual is more than likely unaware they’re experiencing these delusions. In many cases, he or she may communicate bizarre, eccentric and peculiar ideas with utter sincerity and a sense of unproven logic.
- Unusual Behavior and Speech — A psychotic disorder usually causes a person to change his or her speech patterns — like in-coherency and rambling. It may also be hard for the person to stay on track when trying to relate a thought or idea. Behavioral changes are also noticeable – like a disregard for personal hygiene or appearance. In addition, it will be difficult, if not entirely impossible for the person to handle routine daily responsibilities, go to work, or become involved in social functions.
- Hallucinations — Hallucinations are the most well known symptom of a psychotic disorder. Hallucinations are perceptions in the nonexistence of real-world stimuli. The brain will evoke a physical sensation of something that doesn’t exist. People suffering from psychotic disorder may see visions; hear voices, smell odors, or experience unusual tastes in their mouth. In some cases, they may even feel like they’re being physically touched. Because the brain is interpreting internal thoughts as physical reality, the person suffering hallucinations can’t differentiate what is actually real from what is an imagination. Additionally, they may not even be aware of the hallucination.
Treatment
Mental illness requires professional diagnosis and treatment. It varies from anxiety and stress to more complicated problems — like a bipolar and psychotic disorder. Taking time to research mental illness signs and symptoms may be helpful.
However, it’s much better to reach out to the mental health community, through hotlines, hospitals, or clinics. Talk with your healthcare professional or doctor if you’re not sure where to go for help.
Handling mental illness and a psychotic disorder is more about learning to cope with it successfully — so you can live a better life.
