Psychotic Disorders Treatment Q&A

Broadly classified based on actions, these are the four types of psychotic disorders – schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, catatonia, and ‘folie à deux.’ Not uncommon, schizophrenia defines the basic psychotic disorder symptoms that include hallucinations (hearing and seeing things that don’t exist) and sadism. The range of schizophrenia episodes can differ from person to person. Some may be born with a disorder; some develop it for a few months (brief psychotic disorder), and some develop hallucinations following a traumatic event.

Bipolar disorder is a condition when an individual develops hyper mood swings. With trigger events, they may go into an episode of hyper-sadness (depression) and feel the need for self-harm. Alternately, they may want to overindulge in pleasurable activities (hypomania) like excessive shopping, inappropriate sexual behavior, or reckless activities that otherwise need cautious thinking.
Catatonia, very similar to schizophrenia, draws its differences from “not-normal” motor (dis)abilities. For example, verbal mutism (acting mute on purpose), odd manners (like not adjusting, supreme/godly behaviors), repetitive meaningless actions, saying illogical sentences, reacting with anger or violence to an apparent threat, or even mimicry.

Lastly, folie à deux refers to two people experiencing the same disorder. This usually runs in the family, parent-child, twins – coming from the same trauma as the other. The term is commonly translated to “madness experienced by two.”

The general definition of psychotic behavior is a withdrawal of self from reality. One may experience things that others don’t and that is the most basic symptom of psychotic behavior. Some behavior includes difficulty in concentrating, prolonged depression, insomnia or oversleeping, selective withdrawal, self-abuse, substance abuse, potential danger to people around them, and erratic behavior. But, a psychotic behavior for one, may not be for another person. Therefore, it is always necessary to consult a specialist to discuss abnormal attitudes.

The symptoms of psychotic disorders differ from person to person. The following is a list of symptoms:

• Anxiety, paranoia, or hyper-responsive senses
• Social withdrawal, lack of interest in routine activities especially personal hygiene
• Hallucinations, jealousy, sadism, dangerous behavior
• Debating behavior, especially over trigger topics
• Cold, rude, detached attitude, or over-friendly attitude

These are only some of the symptoms of a possible disorder. A therapist may help judge the condition better.

The causes of psychotic disorders are not fixed. For example, a child born with a chemical imbalance may have life-long psychotic disorders. For some, it develops due to other underlying conditions such as OCD, ADHD, PTSD, or the death of someone close. Some studies point out the development of psychotic behavior post a physical medical state like pregnancy, cancer, or even inadequate sleep. Unwanted thoughts, fears, and uncomfortable social situations may also result in psychotic behavior. Studies have shown that young men tend to develop psychotic disorders more often than women. Yet, a foolproof reason for an episode of psychotic behavior has never been proved. Like in the case of physical illnesses, an individual must consult with a healthcare professional for symptoms of a possible mental disorder. So, if you, or a loved one, are looking for treatment, don’t hesitate to get help today. Our team at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches is here to help you live your best life. For more information, call us today or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you. We serve patients from Boynton Beach FL, Delray Beach FL, Palm Beach Gardens FL, Jupiter FL, Stuart FL, Palm City FL, Royal Palm Beach FL, Wellington FL, Vero Beach FL, Citrus Ridge FL, Plantation FL, Sunrise FL, Jacksonville FL, Riverside FL, Port St. Lucie FL, Beau Rivage West FL, and surrounding areas.