Psychosis is a serious mental health concern that affects how a person thinks, perceives reality, and responds to the world around them. Board-certified nurse practitioner Patrick Ollar, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, provides telehealth psychiatric care through Life Balance Health for patients in Sacramento, Los Angeles, and Yuba City, California; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Portland, Oregon. He offers evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning for psychosis in a supportive, judgment-free setting. Call Life Balance Health or book online today to discuss psychosis care.
Psychosis is a symptom, not a diagnosis on its own. It happens when someone loses contact with reality and struggles to tell what’s real from what isn’t.
Psychosis can happen with several psychiatric conditions, certain medical problems, or substance use. Because the causes vary, Life Balance Health starts with a careful psychiatric assessment instead of assuming every case has the same cause.
Psychosis symptoms may include:
Some people also seem fearful, emotionally flat, or disconnected from daily life. These symptoms often feel upsetting and confusing for both the person experiencing them and those around them.
Early warning signs may appear before a full psychotic episode. These signs can include sleep problems, a drop in motivation, unusual thoughts, and worsening functioning at work, school, or in relationships. Early treatment often leads to better outcomes.
Psychosis doesn’t come from one single cause but appears to result from a combination of genetic risk, exposure to stressors or trauma, and differences in brain development. Mental health conditions linked with psychosis include:
Substance use is another important factor. Drugs such as cannabis, cocaine, LSD, and amphetamines can increase the risk of psychosis in some people.
Psychosis treatment usually starts with a full review of symptoms, medical history, substance use, safety concerns, and daily functioning. Patrick uses that information to guide diagnosis and build a treatment plan that fits the patient’s needs.
Psychosis treatment commonly includes:
Life Balance Health focuses on symptom stability, better daily functioning, and continued engagement in care.
You should seek psychosis treatment right away if you notice hallucinations, delusions, severe confusion, or a clear break from reality. Quick treatment can reduce distress, improve safety, and support better long-term recovery.
Life Balance Health provides telehealth psychiatric support for patients who need answers, treatment, and follow-up care. Call today or use the online scheduling feature to request a psychosis evaluation.