Psychotic Disorder Treatment & Inpatient Mental Health Care

Living with a psychotic disorder can make everyday life feel unpredictable. Hallucinations, delusions, or sudden mood changes can be frightening and confusing – especially if you don’t understand what’s happening or why it is. You may worry about safety, stability, and whether you will ever feel “normal” again.

Psychotic disorders are serious mental health conditions, but they are also very treatable. And, with the right professional care, many people can stabilize their symptoms, feel more in control, and reconnect with daily life in meaningful and fulfilling ways. Early support and treatment are key to recovery.

Mental health professionals, such as the team at AMFM Healthcare, can provide you with personalized guidance. This article can also help you better understand this condition and your options, as it explores psychotic disorder treatment in depth, including:

What psychotic disorders are
What triggers psychotic conditions
Symptoms of psychosis in adults
The impact on daily life
Effective treatment options
Where to seek professional support for psychotic disorders

What Are Psychotic Disorders?

Psychotic disorders are mental health disorders that involve a break from reality, more commonly known as “psychosis.” Someone experiencing psychosis may find it difficult to tell what is real from what isn’t, which can then affect their thoughts, feelings, and actions. This is because psychosis mental health symptoms often include hallucinations and delusions.¹

Hallucinations involve sensing things that aren’t there, such as hearing voices or seeing things. On the other hand, delusions are strong beliefs held by a person that are not based in reality, even when there is clear evidence to the contrary. For instance, someone may believe that others are “out to get” them, or that people on TV are talking directly to them.

At the same time, people with a psychotic disorder may also experience disorganized speech, thoughts, or behaviors, making it challenging to communicate clearly.¹ As you may imagine, psychosis can be extremely distressing, both for the person experiencing symptoms and for their loved ones.

Psychotic Disorder Vs. Psychosis

While psychosis and psychotic disorders are intrinsically linked, it’s important to know they are not one and the same. Psychosis is actually a symptom of other disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, rather than a condition in its own right.

Some examples of psychotic disorders include:¹

Schizophrenia
Schizophreniform disorder
Schizoaffective disorder
Delusional disorder
Brief psychotic disorder
Psychotic disorder due to another medical condition, such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia, or head injury

However, psychosis can be a symptom present in other mental health conditions that are not psychotic disorders, such as psychotic depression, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder (BPD).^2,3

It’s crucial to remember that, for many people, a psychotic disorder is not necessarily a lifelong condition. With early psychotic disorder treatment and ongoing support, symptoms can be managed or even go into remission with time.

With this in mind, let’s explore the common signs of a psychotic disorder next.

ARE YOU OR A LOVED ONE STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH?

AMFM is here to help you or your loved one take the next steps towards an improved mental well-being.

Symptoms of Psychosis

Recognizing the signs of psychosis is a vital step toward getting the psychotic disorder treatment you need. This is especially essential as the onset of symptoms can vary from person to person; sometimes appearing gradually, and other times starting very suddenly (acute psychotic episodes).

While psychotic disorder experiences can differ between people, certain elements remain common. Some of the most common signs of psychosis include:^2,4

Difficulty telling reality from fantasy
Experiencing delusions, like people are plotting against you
Seeing or hearing things that aren’t really there (hallucinations)
Disorganized, confused, or incoherent speech
Trouble thinking clearly or concentrating
Social withdrawal
Unusual thoughts or ideas
Being less able to look after yourself or function daily, for instance, impaired eating, working, or hygiene
Sleep disturbances
Inappropriate or unpredictable behavior

In real-life situations, these symptoms might look like trouble keeping a job, pulling away from friends and family, or feeling overwhelmed by suspicions or fear. To add to these impacts, psychosis may be accompanied by agitation, anxiety, distress, or confusion. Or, a person may have no idea they have any symptoms because they genuinely believe their hallucinations or delusions are actually real.^2,4

Know that you’re not alone if you recognize these signs, as psychosis affects up to one in a thousand people every year.²

A common question people have when they face any type of mental health challenge is “Why is this happening to me?” Although there is often no simple answer to this question, we explore the potential causes of psychotic conditions in the next section.

Causes and Triggers of Psychotic Disorders

Psychotic disorders are complex conditions and can rarely be traced back to a single source. Instead, studies show these conditions often develop from a combination of underlying biological and environmental factors, which are covered in more detail below.^2,3,5-7

Biological Influences

Psychotic conditions often have a strong genetic component. This means that they are more common in people who have a family member who also has a psychotic disorder.

In terms of brain functioning, it is thought that psychotic disorders are associated with certain brain chemicals called “neurotransmitters.” However, research is continuing to allow us to understand these conditions better. To add to this, changes in brain structure, such as shrinking or enlargement of ventricles or lobes, are also associated with certain psychotic disorders.

Environmental Stressors

Stressful events, such as trauma, major life changes like a death, divorce, or job loss, or substance misuse, can also contribute to symptoms being triggered.

Another thing to consider is that studies show exposure to viruses or malnutrition before birth can increase the risk of certain psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia.

Understanding the potential causes of psychotic disorders is not about laying blame at anyone’s door. Rather, it’s about making sense of your condition and helping mental health professionals create psychotic disorder treatment plans that address both the symptoms and any underlying risk factors.

Before looking at effective treatment options, it’s important to understand the impact psychosis can have on everyday life, which we dive into next.

Find Mental Health Treatment Programs

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) provides treatment for adults experiencing various conditions. Mental Health support is a phone call away – call 866-478-4383 to learn about our current treatment options.

California Locations

See our residences in Southern California’s Orange County & San Diego County.

Carlsbad - Goldenbush

Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & covered seating in backyard.

Carlsbad - Hoover

Male identifying house with double occupancy rooms for our clients with ocean views and large rooms.

Dana Point - Blue Lantern

Male identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & pool.

Dana Point - Crystal Lantern

Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Includes large rooms, updated interior, & private treatment rooms.

Fallbrook - North Ridge

Male identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features a tennis court, pool, and game area.

Fallbrook - Peony

Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Secluded area with library, large backyard, and pool.

Laguna Hills - Waterwheel

Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & large backyard.

Laguna Niguel - Campeon

Male identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & covered seating in backyard.

Lake Forest - Grayston

Male identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & covered seating in backyard.

Lake Forest - Sunnybrook

Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Newly remodeled interior with large rooms and backyard with garden.

San Juan Capistrano - Banderas

Male identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Updated interior, & covered seating in backyard.

San Juan Capistrano - Valencia

Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & covered seating in backyard.

Minnesota Locations

Take a look at our homes on the east side of the Metro area in Washington County.

Stillwater - Arcola

Male mental health residential house with double and single occupancy rooms. Secluded area with large backyard many dedicated spaces for therapy.

Stillwater - Dellwood

Female mental health residential house with double and single occupancy rooms. Beautifully appointed, relaxing atmosphere for healing.

Virginia Locations

View our facilities in Fairfax County, VA within the DC metro area.

Annandale - Rebel Rose

Female identifying house with single and double occupancy rooms. Secluded area with movie theater, on a large property.

Fairfax Station - Derbyshire

Male only house with double occupancy rooms. Secluded area with large rooms, gorgeous interior, and music/game room.

Great Falls - Kellie Jean

Gender Inclusive house with double and single occupancy rooms. Secluded area with movie theater, game room, and large property.

Vienna - Browns Mill

Gender Inclusive property, Restoring hope and well-being, AMFM Mental Health Treatment provides compassionate care in a peaceful setting in Vienna, Virginia.

Vienna - Corsica

Gender Inclusive house with double and single occupancy rooms. Secluded area with large backyard, movie theater, and dedicated spaces for therapy.

Vienna - Lawyers

Male identifying house with double and single occupancy rooms. Secluded area with large backyard many dedicated spaces for therapy.

The Impact of Living With a Psychotic Disorder

Living with a disorder such as schizophrenia or delusional disorder can affect more than your mental health. Symptoms can cause ripple effects throughout your entire life, with work, relationships, and everyday routines being disrupted.

Some of the most common challenges of living with an untreated psychotic disorder include:^2,5,8,9

Social isolation: Caused by a person withdrawing from friends or family due to fear or paranoia
Relationship challenges: Exacerbated by the range of symptoms associated with the disorder
Work challenges: Concentration, motivation, and reliability can be negatively affected
Exhaustion and distress: Due to symptoms that may be frightening, such as hallucinations
Co-occurring mental health conditions: These can be common and may make recovery more complex
Medical conditions: Studies show people with psychosis typically develop more lifetime health problems compared to those without psychosis
Safety risks: Some people experiencing a psychotic episode may harm themselves or become threatening or violent toward other people. Equally, symptoms of psychosis may stop someone from reaching out for the help and treatment they need.

Fortunately, help for psychosis is available and can be life-changing. With psychotic disorder treatment and professional support, many people with this condition can find stability, reconnect with loved ones, and rebuild a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Effective treatment options are covered in the following sections.

Professional Psychotic Disorder Treatment Options

Seeking support for psychosis is essential as early intervention can enhance recovery.^2,5 Because we are all unique, effective treatment for psychotic disorders is personalized to your specific symptoms and individual needs to ensure you receive the best support on your healing journey. Still, most treatment plans will combine elements such as medication, therapy, and supportive care to address your current symptoms and also long-term recovery. These treatments are explored further below.

Antipsychotic Medication Management

Antipsychotic medications are the “gold standard” treatment when it comes to psychotic episodes and disorders. They can be very effective at managing and reducing symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thoughts, as well as other symptoms. Additionally, there isn’t just one antipsychotic medication; there are several different types that can be used to treat psychosis. In other words, if the first medication you’re prescribed doesn’t “feel right” for you, you can rest assured there are likely other effective medications you may try.⁵

Therapy for Psychotic Disorders

Alongside medication, a type of talking therapy called “cognitive behavioral therapy” (CBT) plays a vital role in the treatment of and recovery from psychosis.⁵ CBT is a focused therapeutic approach that can help you challenge distressing thoughts, better manage your stress, and improve your ability to manage daily tasks. Not only does therapy help you with practical strategies, but it also offers a safe and confidential space for you to explore the emotional impact of living with a psychotic disorder.

Crisis Stabilization

Crisis stabilization mental health services can help you stay safe during emergencies. This type of treatment focuses on immediate symptom reduction, safety planning, and connecting you with ongoing care services to ensure you receive continued support.

Inpatient Treatment for Psychosis

When psychosis symptoms make life feel unsafe or affect your daily living, residential psychiatric care may provide the level of support needed for recovery. You may want to consider residential or inpatient treatment if:²

You are a danger to yourself or someone else
Symptoms are severe and cannot be managed safely at home
You are unable to carry out basic self-care, like eating or bathing
A more intensive level of care is needed than can be provided through outpatient settings

If any of the above resonate with you, inpatient treatment may be the next appropriate step to investigate. An inpatient or residential treatment program offers a therapeutic community designed specifically to provide safety, allow stabilization, and pave the way to long-lasting recovery. With 24/7 care, intensive therapy, and medication management, residential programs can offer you the space, structure, and support needed to truly heal.

Many health insurance plans provide insurance coverage for treatment programs focusing on psychotic disorders. This often includes services like therapy, medication management, and specialized services. Your coverage is dependent on your carrier and the unique details of your insurance plan.

Insurance carriers often offer a range of brands and services, so their policyholders can choose a plan that aligns with their symptoms and personal needs. We encourage you to verify your insurance to learn about limitations, exclusions, and out-of-pocket expenses associated with your plan.

Seeking Psychotic Disorder Support Recovery Programs Through AMFM

Living with a psychotic disorder, like schizoaffective disorder, can feel overwhelming, but recovery is possible with the right support. If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of psychosis, reaching out for professional help is an important first step.

At AMFM’s treatment centers, we can support you from the very first moment you contact us through to stabilization, therapy, medication management, and recovery. We offer personalized treatment plans, evidence-based approaches, and holistic care to help you truly heal. A warm welcome awaits you when you join us at our residential facilities in California, Minnesota, and Virginia.

You don’t have to navigate psychosis alone – we are here to help you. Contact us today if you are ready to begin your recovery journey to a more stable future.

Request a Call from Our Admission Team

Complete the form to receive a prompt call back from a member of our experienced and compassionate admissions staff. All communication is 100% confidential.

"*" indicates required fields

Name*

Phone*

This field is hidden when viewing the form

DKV_First