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psychosis

psychosis is a mental and behavioural disorder in which a person has trouble telling the difference between what is real and what is not real. it may cause bizarre thoughts and behaviour.

a person with psychosis may have:

  • delusions, which are firmly held but false beliefs. irrational suspicion of others (paranoia) is a common delusion. the person may think others are watching or trying to hurt or even kill him or her.
  • hallucinations, which are false perceptions. hallucinations can include seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling, or tasting things that are not really there.
  • personality changes.

treatment for psychosis depends on the cause and may include care in a hospital. medicines that diminish hallucinations and delusions and stabilize thinking and behaviour are helpful. group or individual therapy also may be helpful.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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