Symptoms of Drug-Induced Psychosis
The symptoms of drug-induced psychosis vary depending on the type of drug used, the amount ingested, and the individual's mental health history. Common symptoms include:
•Hallucinations – seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not real
•Delusions – believing things that are not true
•Paranoia – feeling suspicious or fearful of others without reason
•Confusion – difficulty understanding or processing information
•Disorganized thinking – thoughts that jump from one topic to another without any logical connection
•Agitation – feeling restless and agitated
•Catatonia – immobility, unresponsiveness, or repetitive movements
Diagnosing Drug-Induced Psychosis
In order to diagnose drug-induced psychosis, a doctor will take a thorough medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order laboratory tests to rule out other conditions. The doctor will also ask about the patient's history of drug use and any mental health issues.
If the doctor suspects drug-induced psychosis, they may refer the patient to a psychiatrist or other mental health professional for further evaluation. The psychiatrist will perform a psychological evaluation to assess the patient's mental state and determine the diagnosis. They may also order imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan to check for any physical causes of the symptoms.
Treatment of Drug-Induced Psychosis
The treatment of drug-induced psychosis depends on the type of drug used, the amount ingested, and the individual's mental health history. The first step is to stop using the drug and seek medical help if necessary. This may involve detoxification and counseling to help the patient manage their addiction.
If the drug-induced psychosis is caused by an underlying mental health disorder, the doctor may also prescribe medications such as antipsychotics or antidepressants. They may also recommend psychotherapy to help the patient cope with their symptoms and address any underlying issues.