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Do You Know the Difference Between Schizophrenia Vs Psychosis?

Many people confuse the terms of schizophrenia vs psychosis. These terms frequently make their way into our daily language, whether as we discuss people we know or wonder if individual symptoms match either condition. But even on television and in online media, people misunderstand psychosis and schizophrenia.

What is Schizophrenia vs Psychosis?

young woman wonders the difference between schizophrenia vs psychosisConsider schizophrenia vs psychosis to understand better their differences and how they go together. After all, misunderstanding these terms causes problems for people suffering mental health problems to which the terms relate.

First, schizophrenia is a mental health condition. This illness includes an array of symptoms. One of these symptoms is psychosis. But psychosis is only a symptom of some disorders like schizophrenia. It is not its own condition.

This is where schizophrenia vs psychosis starts making sense. Psychosis is part of schizophrenia. But it also is a symptom of other mental health problems.

About Psychosis, a Mental Health Symptom

Psychosis is not a mental health disorder, as said before. But you identify psychosis by its traits. These traits include:

  • Hallucinations and delusions
  • Catatonic behavior
  • Confusion
  • Racing thoughts
  • Unclear thoughts
  • Disorganized speech and behavior

Of these symptoms, the most commonly occurring ones include hallucinations and delusions. Individual people show their own collection of symptoms from this list, as clear signs of their psychosis.

Psychosis also occurs in other mental health conditions, besides schizophrenia. It occurs in people with psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. In fact, psychosis is frequently a side effect of drug or alcohol abuse.

About Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia includes psychosis symptoms, as a rule. In other words, if someone does not experience psychosis, they do not meet the criteria for schizophrenia. But with psychosis, other symptoms must also be present.

Some of these other symptoms include lost motivation, reduced speech, reduced emotional expression, and a lost sense of pleasure. People with the condition also experience reduced functioning.

Having symptoms like psychosis does not automatically mean you suffer schizophrenia. This condition is very complex. It requires a doctor’s evaluation and diagnosis.

Getting the Treatment You Need for Disorders with Psychosis

Psychosis signals the possibility of a wide range of mental health problems or substance addiction. For this, you must find a schizophrenia treatment program along with a dual diagnosis treatment program. This type of rehab treatment provides help for multiple conditions at the same time.

Boise addiction treatment programs for mental health and substance use disorders in teens and young adults include:

  • IOP and OP rehab treatment
  • Early adolescent intervention
  • Multi-systemic family approach
  • Teen and young adult programs for up to age 25

Your teen or young adult gets the help they need at Zelus Recovery in Meridian, Idaho. Near Boise, your young person and family together learn about the differences between schizophrenia vs psychosis, as well as other important aspects of your teen’s needs. Contact Zelus Recovery now at 208.518.0797 for the important treatment your loved one needs for a healthier, happier and more stable future.