Addiction brings about a host of complications, but one of the most misunderstood and alarming effects can be psychosis. For those experiencing addiction, their loved ones, and professionals in the field, understanding psychosis is crucial to better navigating the treatment process. This piece unpacks the relationship between psychosis and addiction, its causes, and the treatment options available to move toward recovery.
What Is Psychosis?
Psychosis refers to a mental state where an individual loses touch with reality. This can manifest as hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there) or delusions (strongly held false beliefs). While psychosis is most commonly associated with conditions like schizophrenia, it can also occur as a result of substance abuse, known as substance-induced psychotic disorder.
Psychosis stemming from addiction can be temporary, but in some cases, prolonged substance use can lead to lasting mental health challenges. Understanding the root of psychosis in addiction is essential for appropriate treatment and care.
The Link Between Psychosis and Addiction
How Addiction Causes Psychosis
Certain substances can directly affect the brain’s neurotransmitters, disrupting normal cognitive and emotional processes. Psychosis may occur as a result of this neurological interference, with specific substances more likely to trigger psychotic symptoms:
- Stimulants like methamphetamines and cocaine can overstimulate the brain, leading to paranoia, hallucinations, and erratic behavior.
- Substances like cannabis (particularly strains with high THC levels) have been linked to psychotic episodes, especially in individuals predisposed to mental health issues.
- Alcohol can cause psychosis during severe withdrawal or in cases where alcohol use has led to brain damage.
- Hallucinogens such as LSD or mushrooms can distort reality to an extreme, inducing psychosis during or after use.
- Synthetic drugs, such as spice or bath salts, are increasingly associated with acute and unpredictable psychoses.
Risk Factors for Addiction-Related Psychosis
Not everyone who struggles with addiction will experience psychosis. However, certain factors increase the likelihood, such as:
- Genetics: A family history of mental illness can predispose someone to substance-induced psychosis.
- Pre-existing mental health conditions like anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia can interact negatively with substances.
- Type and amount of substance consumed also play a role in triggering psychotic episodes. Prolonged use and higher doses increase the risk exponentially.
- Environmental or emotional stress, particularly in individuals already struggling with addiction, can act as a trigger for psychosis.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Spotting psychosis early is critical, as it often signals a need for urgent medical or therapeutic intervention. Look out for signs such as:
- Hallucinations (visual, auditory, or tactile)
- Paranoia or suspicions that are unfounded and extreme
- Delusions, often characterized by irrational beliefs about oneself or others
- Disorganized thinking, making it difficult to follow conversations
- Agitation or extreme emotional responses
- Withdrawal from reality or social interactions
Symptoms of psychosis caused by addiction can fluctuate, becoming more severe during active substance use or withdrawal periods.
Treating Psychosis in Addiction
Addressing both addiction and psychosis simultaneously, a practice called dual diagnosis treatment, is the most effective approach. These cases often require personalized and multidisciplinary care, which can span the following methods:
Medical Detoxification
Detox is often the first step, particularly in cases where substances are causing acute psychotic episodes. Under medical supervision, harmful substances are safely removed from the individual’s system, helping to manage both withdrawal symptoms and psychosis.
Medication
Antipsychotic medications may be prescribed to reduce the intensity of psychotic symptoms. Additionally, medications like mood stabilizers, antidepressants, or even medication-assisted treatments (e.g., methadone or buprenorphine) can treat underlying addiction and co-occurring disorders.
Therapy and Counseling
Psychotherapy plays a pivotal role in long-term recovery. Treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) help individuals recognize and manage triggers while addressing the distorted thinking linked with psychosis. Group therapy may also help those struggling to feel less isolated, fostering connections with others who understand their challenges.
Skills-Based Recovery Programs
Training in behavioral and life skills is key for people with addiction and psychosis, helping them reintegrate into daily life without substance reliance.
Ongoing Support
Recovery is not a one-time event but a continuous process. Support networks, aftercare programs, and community resources all play an essential role in helping individuals rebuild a life free from substance abuse.
When psychosis intersects with addiction, it can feel overwhelming for all involved. Yet, recovery is entirely possible with the right care, support, and resources.
At Robert Alexander Recovery Center, we specialize in dual diagnosis treatment, offering a safe and compassionate space to address addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. If you or a loved one is facing addiction-related psychosis, reach out to us today. Together, we can create a path toward healing and a brighter future.