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Psychosis

What is psychosis?

Psychosis is when a person loses some contact with reality. They may see, hear or believe things that other people do not. It is a symptom rather than an illness in itself, and it can happen for many reasons.

Psychosis can be linked to conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or severe depression. It can also be triggered by drug use (especially cannabis, cocaine and amphetamines), alcohol withdrawal, extreme stress, lack of sleep, or physical illness.

Many people have one episode of psychosis and fully recover.

What are the signs of psychosis?

1. Hallucinations:

  • Hearing voices or sounds that others cannot hear.
  • Seeing, smelling, tasting or feeling things that are not there.

2. Delusions:

  • Strong beliefs that are not shared by others, such as believing you are being followed, watched or plotted against.
  • Believing you have special powers or a special mission.

3. Confused thinking:

  • Racing or jumbled thoughts.
  • Speech that is hard for others to follow.
  • Difficulty concentrating.

4. Early warning signs:

  • Withdrawing from friends, family or work.
  • Suspiciousness.
  • Changes in sleep.
  • Neglecting personal care.
  • A sense that something is "not right".

What are the statistics for psychosis in the UK?

Prevalence: The Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey (2014) estimated that around 6 in 1,000 adults in England had a psychotic disorder in the past year.

Age: A first episode most often happens between the late teens and mid-30s.

Drugs: Regular use of high-strength cannabis is linked to a significantly higher risk of psychosis.

Early help: NHS Early Intervention in Psychosis teams aim to start treatment within two weeks of referral. Getting help early leads to better recovery.

Where to get help with psychosis UK?

Always call 999 if you are in need of urgent help, or if someone may be at risk of harming themselves or others. For mental health crisis support in England you can also call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.

Rethink Mental Illness: Advice and information on psychosis and severe mental illness.
Website: https://www.rethink.org/
Advice line: 0808 801 0525

Mind:
Website: https://www.mind.org.uk/
Infoline: 0300 123 3393

SANEline: Emotional support for anyone affected by mental illness, including family and friends.
Helpline: 0300 304 7000

Your GP: Your GP can refer you to your local Early Intervention in Psychosis service.

Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity:
Helpline: 0345 605 1956 (24/7)

Samaritans:
Helpline: 116 123 (24/7, free to call)

If you are worried about a workmate, stay calm, listen without arguing about what they are experiencing, and help them get medical support.

Conditions and diagnoses

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