Psychosis is a mental condition that causes people to lose touch with reality. It may also be referred to as a psychotic disorder, psychotic behavior or a psychotic break.

Some symptoms presented by patients with psychosis include hallucinations, delusions, personality changes, disorganized thinking and bizarre behaviors.

Patients with psychosis may have difficulty functioning in home, school and work settings and may need assistance with daily living activities, such as grooming and handling money.

Psychosis may be caused by a number of mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It can also result from medical illnesses (e.g.,Alzheimer’s disease), substance abuse and as a side effect of some prescription medications, such as stimulants.

Psychosis may be diagnosed by a physician during a physical examination that includes a medical history and list of medications. Physicians may conduct tests, such as blood or urine tests, to rule out other medical conditions and medications that may be producing symptoms. Patients usually receive a psychiatric evaluation from a mental health professional.

Psychosis may be treated with medications, such as antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. Patients may also receive treatments such as psychosocial rehabilitation, family education or family therapy.