Psychosis

The sky above seen from the bottom of a deep canyon

Experiencing psychosis can be deeply frightening and isolating, but you are not alone. Estimates of percentages of people who experience psychosis range from as low as 1% to as high as 15% or more, though there remains a significant stigma attached. In movies and TV, individuals who experience psychosis might be depicted as aggressive or even violent, whereas, in reality, the majority of these individuals are much more likely to be victims of violence or prone to be taken advantage of and withdrawn from others.

The experience of psychosis can significantly impact our relationships, romantic or otherwise. However, our most current research and understanding identifies fostering relationships as one of the most effective means of coping with and recovering from psychosis. In the same way that difficulties with relationships, especially in youth, can be a contributing factor to the first onset of psychosis, positive relationships during and following an episode can help us overcome the logistical, practical, emotional, cognitive, and physical challenges often associated with such symptoms and related diagnoses.

Social relationships, including romantic relationships, are inherent to recovery. Whether you have experienced psychosis yourself, or if you have a loved one or close other who has experienced or is experiencing psychosis, you will find support at PCT!

PCT clinicians who specialize in this area