What is Psychosis?

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Simply, psychosis is defined as when a person loses contact with reality. Psychosis is a broad term, that covers a large range of signs and symptoms which have a large range of causes. Psychosis is common and will affect 1 in every 200 people during their life [HSE]. Psychosis is not a condition itself, it is caused by an underlying health issue such as a genetic disorder, brain trauma or, more commonly, is a symptom of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder [HSE]. It is important for young people to understand the signs and symptoms of psychosis as it presents most regularly in young adults (aged 20-24, though it may be later in women). It has also been shown that the first 2-3 years of onset of psychosis are the most important and treatment during this time can lead to hugely improved outcomes for people with this disorder.