Psychosis is when someone experiences hallucinations and delusions. People living with psychosis may hear or see things that aren’t there, and they may believe things that are impossible or of a fantastical nature. People who have this condition often lose complete touch with reality, and can severely harm themselves or others. They may believe that others are out to hurt them, or that a divine voice is telling them to hurt themselves or others.
It’s important to understand that psychosis is a symptom of a more significant problem and not a health condition in and of itself. Psychosis can be a positive symptom of many different mental health disorders. Sometimes, a legal or illegal drug can induce psychosis symptoms. It is also possible for drug use to trigger underlying mental health condition where psychosis is a symptom. As many as three in one hundred people will experience an episode of psychosis at least once during their lifetimes.