Psychotic/Schizophrenic Disorders

Psychotic/Schizophrenic
Disorders

Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders are mental health disorders that have psychosis as the primary symptom. This group of mental health disorders includes Schizophrenia, Brief Psychotic Disorder, Schizophreniform Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Other Psychotic Disorders, and Schizotypal (Personality) Disorder. Psychosis involves hallucinations (sensory experiences that are not real) and delusions (false beliefs). The different types of psychotic spectrum disorders differ by the amount of time a person has experienced the symptoms and the severity of the symptoms expressed. In addition, some psychotic disorders have complex mood symptoms and a different symptom course. Schizophrenia is a long-term and complex psychotic disorder that affects a person’s ability to think clearly, determine reality, manage emotions, relate with others, and function well cognitively. Symptoms of Schizophrenia are present for at least six months and can include hallucinations, delusions, disordered thoughts, social withdrawal, difficulty expressing emotions, and significant impairment in cognitive functioning. With Schizophreniform Disorder, the same symptoms of Schizophrenia are present, but for under six months. With Schizoaffective Disorder, symptoms of Schizophrenia are present, as well as symptoms of a mood disorder. Lastly, with Brief Psychotic Disorder, the psychotic symptoms last a shorter time and do not present as fully as with the other, longer-lasting psychotic disorders. At Ally Psychiatry, we offer evaluation for all Psychotic Spectrum Disorders and provide treatment options for individuals suffering with complex psychotic symptoms. We also work to provide families psychoeducation on these types of disorders and how to best help a family member become more stable and regain hope.