Physical illness or injury. You may see or hear things if you have a high fever, head injury, or lead or mercury poisoning
Physical illness or injury can sometimes trigger psychosis. For example, you may see or hear things if you have a high fever, head injury, or lead or mercury poisoning. In some cases, physical illnesses that cause psychosis may be treatable. For example, if an infection is causing your psychosis, treating the infection may help relieve your symptoms. If you have a head injury, treatment for the injury may also help relieve your symptoms. Sometimes, however, physical illnesses that cause psychosis can not be cured. In these cases, treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms of psychosis.
Abuse or trauma
Abuse or trauma can trigger psychosis in several ways. First, abuse or trauma can cause changes in the brain that lead to psychotic symptoms. Second, people who have been abused or traumatized may be more likely to develop psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Finally, abuse or trauma may interact with other risk factors to increase the likelihood of developing psychosis.
The exact mechanisms by which abuse or trauma can lead to psychosis are not fully understood. However, it is clear that these experiences can have a profound impact on mental health. If you have experienced abuse or trauma, it is important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional who can provide support and treatment if needed.
Recreational drugs
People have used recreational drugs for centuries. The ancient Greeks used opium, a drug made from the poppy plant. Native Americans used peyote, a cactus that contains a chemical called mescaline. In the 1800s, doctors used cocaine to treat toothaches and other pain.
Today, many people continue to use recreational drugs despite the risks. Drug abuse can lead to addiction, serious health problems, and even death. Some people try to quit using drugs but find it very difficult to do so on their own.
Alcohol and smoking
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can cause changes in brain chemistry. These changes can lead to symptoms of psychosis, such as delusions and hallucinations. Smoking cigarettes also alters brain chemistry and has been linked to an increased risk of developing psychosis.
People who drink heavily or abuse alcohol are at an increased risk of developing alcoholism, which is a major risk factor for psychosis. Alcoholism can cause changes in brain chemistry that lead to psychotic symptoms. People who smoke cigarettes are also at an increased risk of developing nicotine dependence, which is another major risk factor for psychosis.
Heavy drinking and smoking cigarettes can both damage the brain and lead to psychotic symptoms. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism or nicotine addiction, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Treatment can help reduce the risks associated with these disorders and may even help prevent psychotic episodes from occurring.
Prescribed medication
A person’s prescribed medication can sometimes trigger psychosis. This is because some medications can change the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, which can lead to psychotic symptoms. If a person has a history of mental illness, they may be more likely to experience psychosis from their medication.