Psychosis & Severe Mental Illness
We offer comprehensive psychiatric care for individuals experiencing psychosis and complex mental health conditions, offering diagnosis, stabilization, and long-term support.
Understanding Psychosis
Psychosis is not a disease but a symptom that causes a person to lose touch with reality. It may involve hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t real), delusions (false beliefs), or disorganized thinking. These experiences can be frightening and disruptive, but with professional psychiatric care, recovery and stability are possible.
At PotterMind Psychiatry in Chandler, Arizona, our mental health professionals specialize in evaluating and treating psychosis and related severe mental illnesses. We provide a safe environment where patients and families can receive compassionate, evidence-based care designed to restore functioning and improve quality of life.
What Mental Health Conditions Are Associated with Psychosis?
Psychosis can appear as part of several serious psychiatric conditions. Our team evaluates and treats a wide range of mental health disorders that may include psychotic symptoms or require specialized psychiatric management, such as:
- Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders – Hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thought patterns.
- Schizoaffective Disorder – A combination of schizophrenia symptoms and mood disturbances.
- Bipolar I & II Disorders – Manic or depressive episodes that may include psychosis.
- Major Depressive Disorder with Psychotic Features – Severe depression accompanied by delusions or hallucinations.
- Brief Psychotic Disorder – Sudden, short-term psychotic symptoms triggered by stress.
- Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder – Psychosis resulting from drug or alcohol use or withdrawal.
- Postpartum Psychosis – Severe mood disturbance and delusions following childbirth.
- Trauma-Related Psychosis – Psychotic symptoms linked to trauma or PTSD.
What Are the Warning Signs of Psychosis?
Psychosis can develop suddenly or gradually. Recognizing the early signs—known as first-episode psychosis (FEP)—is crucial to prevent complications and long-term impact. Common signs include:
- Hearing, seeing, or sensing things that aren’t real
- Believing things that are clearly false or illogical
- Disorganized or incoherent speech
- Extreme mood swings or emotional detachment
- Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities
- Poor concentration and confusion
- Neglecting personal hygiene and responsibilities
- Inappropriate or flat emotional responses
When untreated, these symptoms can worsen and interfere with daily life. Early intervention offers the best chance for stabilization and recovery.
What Causes Psychosis or Severe Mental Illness?
Psychosis is often caused by a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. At PotterMind Psychiatry, we assess each patient carefully to understand potential contributors such as:
- Family history of psychosis or major mental illness
- Brain chemistry imbalances involving dopamine or serotonin
- Substance use, including alcohol, cannabis, or stimulants
- Severe stress, trauma, or emotional upheaval
- Medical or neurological conditions affecting brain function
- Hormonal and developmental changes during adolescence or early adulthood
Identifying underlying factors allows our team to provide personalized treatment and reduce relapse risk through targeted interventions.
How Is Psychosis Diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Our psychiatrists perform a comprehensive mental health assessment, which may include:
- Psychiatric evaluation and mental status examination
- Review of medical and family history
- Substance use screening
- Coordination with primary care or neurology for medical causes
- Coordination with primary care or neurology for medical causes
This thorough diagnostic approach ensures each patient receives care tailored to their unique condition and needs.
How Is Psychosis Treated?
The treatment of psychosis and severe mental illness at PotterMind Psychiatry focuses on stabilization, safety, and long-term support. Each plan is personalized to promote recovery and help patients return to fulfilling, independent living.
1. Medication Management
Our psychiatrists prescribe medications such as antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, or antidepressants to help reduce hallucinations, manage mood swings, and restore clear thinking. We carefully monitor medication effectiveness and adjust doses for optimal results.
2. Psychotherapy and Counseling
Therapy helps patients understand their experiences, strengthen coping skills, and build insight. We use approaches such as:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp): Helps manage delusional thoughts and distressing symptoms.
- Supportive Psychotherapy: Builds trust, motivation, and emotional resilience.
- Psychoeducation: Educates patients and families about illness management and relapse prevention.
3. Family Support and Case Management
Psychosis affects not only the individual but their loved ones. We offer family therapy and education to help relatives understand the condition, recognize warning signs, and support ongoing recovery. Continued case management ensures consistent follow-up and coordination of care
Find Help and Hope Today
Psychosis and severe mental illness can be overwhelming, but professional help can make recovery possible. The compassionate psychiatric team at PotterMind Psychiatry provides comprehensive diagnosis, medication management, and long-term support to help patients regain stability and confidence.
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