Psychosis is a complex mental state that can significantly disrupt your thoughts, behaviors, and perception of the world around you. Because it alters how your brain processes information, this condition can trigger hallucinations or make you believe impossible things.
While psychotic episodes are hallmarks of schizophrenia, some drugs also lead to this condition. Understanding drug-induced psychosis, its symptoms, and its causes is essential for anyone grappling with substance abuse or concerned about their well-being.
What Is Psychosis?
Psychosis is a mental health symptom characterized by a disconnection from reality. It can manifest as hallucinations, delusions, or radically altered perceptions. While often associated with psychiatric illnesses, psychosis can also result from other factors, like extreme stress, trauma, and substance abuse.
The onset of psychosis can be subtle, beginning with minor changes in thought processes and perceptions, and can gradually worsen if left untreated. Some early warning signs include:
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Withdrawing from social interactions
- Experiencing inappropriate emotional responses or numbness
- Lack of motivation for self-care
- Hearing or seeing things that aren’t there
- Having unusual, irrational beliefs or experiencing intrusive thoughts
- Increased paranoia or distrust
- Assigning significance to trivial events
Drug-Induced Psychosis: A Closer Look
While drug abuse can exacerbate existing mental health conditions, any substance that alters your perceptions can trigger psychosis. Drug-induced psychosis might occur due to excessive consumption of a particular drug, combining various substances, or as a withdrawal symptom. Symptom severity often correlates with the intensity of drug use and typically lasts until the substance is entirely out of the system.
The following substances can result in a psychotic episode.
- Prescription drugs: Some muscle relaxers, antidepressants, and high blood pressure medications may induce psychotic symptoms. If you experience such symptoms while taking your medication as directed, consult your physician for an alternative treatment plan.
- Illicit drugs: Cocaine and methamphetamines are notorious for inducing persecutory delusions. People taking these drugs may experience paranoia, believing others are plotting against them.
- Marijuana: Growing evidence links high-THC marijuana products to psychosis, particularly in frequent users.
- Alcohol: Severe alcohol withdrawal can induce delirium tremens, a condition marked by intense delusions and hallucinations.
Starting Your Recovery With Drug Detox
Drug-induced psychosis is a severe condition, but you can return to mental wellness with support, accountability, and symptom reduction. At Lakeside-Milam Recovery Centers, medical detox is the foundation of a comprehensive treatment plan. Trained professionals will monitor your symptoms while your body clears all traces of drugs. After up to a week of supervision in our Washington detox center, you will be stable enough to transition into one of our two outpatient treatment programs.
Our compassionate team provides comprehensive care for substance use and mental health disorders. Talking to someone about your relationship with drugs is the first step in getting sober and starting your recovery on the right foot. Contact our admissions advisors today for answers to your questions.
