A recent shocking news report about a 14-year-old who stabbed family members highlights the importance of recognizing hallucinations. Reports reveal the child heard voices instructing the act.
Voices without sources are known as hallucinations, a symptom of mental illness characterized by sensory perception without stimuli. It indicates psychosis, a condition where distinguishing reality becomes challenging.
Symptoms of Psychosis:
- Hallucinations: hearing voices, seeing shadows, or feeling nonexistent things.
- Delusions: false beliefs, such as feeling threatened or possessing extraordinary powers.
- Behavioral issues: social withdrawal, sleep disturbances, or difficulty completing tasks.
- Mood changes: excessive anxiety, sadness, or worry.
- Thought disturbances: difficulty concentrating or frequent daydreaming.
- Speech disturbances: incoherent or repetitive speech.
Causes of Psychosis:
- Genetic factors, severe stress, drug use, head trauma, or hormonal changes.
- Other factors include unresolved conflicts and mental or physical fatigue.
Facts About Psychosis:
- It is not fabricated or caused by poor parenting.
- It is not a weakness but a medical condition treatable with proper care.
- It is not the end; recovery is possible.
Family Support:
- Listen and pay attention to the affected individual.
- Reduce stress levels experienced by the person.
- Seek immediate psychiatric consultation for appropriate treatment.
- Encourage a healthy lifestyle: nutritious meals, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.
Psychosis Treatment:
- Antipsychotic medications, psychotherapy, psychosocial rehabilitation, and stimulation therapy.
Never ignore hallucinations, as they are symptoms of mental illness!