Psychotic Disorders

Psychosis is best treated early, as soon as one has begun to experience the symptoms of psychosis. Those symptoms include, but may not be limited to:

• Hearing, seeing, tasting or believing things that others do not

• Suspiciousness or extreme uneasiness with others

• Persistent, unusual thoughts or beliefs

• Strong and inappropriate emotions or no emotions at all • Withdrawing from family and friends

A sudden decline in self-care

• Trouble thinking clearly or concentrating

Unfortunately, psychosis seems to target young people, young adults, who are going through puberty and/or are experiencing hormonal changes. We are not certain about cause, but family history often plays a role, as well as stressors happening during a critical brain development stage.

It is imperative to get help early if you see any of these warning signs. A team-based approach, Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC), has been found to be most effective. The team will usually include physicians, psychiatrists, counselors, and case managers. They will all work together to find the best medication and therapeutic treatments for each individual.

Dr. Wesley is a counselor who has worked extensively with those experiencing psychoses. He knows and understands the signs and can help you navigate the system as you work through this diagnosis. Parents often find themselves at a loss as to what to do when they have a teen who is battling this barrage of symptoms. It can be a bit scary and frustrating trying to find the right help. Let Dr. Wesley be your guide through this difficult time.

Specific psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, are discussed in more detail, with links to more information on these disorders from trusted sources, on the following subpages:

Schizophrenia

Schizotypal (Personality) Disorder

Delusional Disorder

Brief Psychotic Disorder

Schizoaffective Disorder