Understanding and Supporting Psychosis: What You Need to Know

Active psychosis refers to a state where someone experiences a break from reality. This can include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (strong false beliefs), disorganized thinking, and unusual or erratic behavior. Active psychosis is often linked to serious mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder, and it requires immediate evaluation by a qualified mental health professional.

When to Seek Emergency Help

Not all experiences of psychosis require a 911 call, but safety should always come first.

• If someone is actively suicidal, threatening harm, extremely agitated, or unable to care for themselves → call 911 (and request a Crisis Intervention Team officer if available) or call/text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

• If the person is experiencing mild hallucinations or delusions without signs of danger, it may not be an emergency—but they should still receive professional care as soon as possible.

When in doubt, err on the side of caution and seek immediate help if safety is at risk.

If a Loved One Is Experiencing Psychosis

If your loved one is not in immediate danger, here are ways you can support them:

• Encourage them to reach out to a mental health provider or primary care doctor.

• Offer to help them connect with resources (support groups, crisis lines, therapy options).

• Listen with compassion and without judgment.

• Help them create a safety plan in case symptoms worsen.

• Stay connected and check in consistently.

• Educate yourself about psychosis so you can respond with understanding.

• Respect their autonomy, while gently encouraging professional help.

If symptoms worsen or safety becomes a concern, call emergency services right away. It's crucial to approach the situation with empathy, patience, and understanding while also prioritizing their well-being and safety.

The Hard Truth: When Systems Fail Families

Supporting someone through psychosis or mania is not only about love and patience. It’s also about navigating systems that are often underfunded, inconsistent, and frustrating. Many families know the heartbreak of watching someone they love refuse help during a manic or psychotic episode, only to be turned away by hospitals or discharged before they are truly stable.

These gaps can leave loved ones feeling powerless, exhausted, and deeply alone. If you’ve ever been in this position, know that the struggle you faced is not a reflection of your effort or love — it’s a reality of how broken parts of the mental health system can be.

That’s why support for you matters too. Families and partners carry an incredible weight when trying to help someone who doesn’t yet want help, and having your own space to process, grieve, and regain stability can make all the difference.

✨ If you are the loved one of someone who has gone through psychosis, therapy can give you a place to breathe, untangle your own feelings, and rebuild your strength. You don’t have to carry it all alone. Schedule a free consult to explore whether therapy could be the support you need.

What You Need to Know if You Believe You Are Experiencing Psychosis

If you are experiencing psychosis remember that thoughts of suicide need to be taken seriously and if you are actively suicidal call 911 and ask to speak to a Crisis Intervention Team Officer or call or text the Suicide Hotline at 988. When you are stable and safe there are additional steps you can take:

• Once you are safe and stable, consider these steps:

  • Contact a trusted person who can help you stay grounded.

  • Reach out to your therapist, psychiatrist, or doctor for immediate support.

  • Go to the ER or urgent care if symptoms are escalating.

  • Practice self-care strategies (deep breathing, calming music, mindfulness).

  • Avoid alcohol or drugs, as these can intensify symptoms.

  • Create a safety plan with your support system.

    
    

Remember that it's okay to ask for help and reach out for support during difficult times. You are not alone, and there are people who care about you and want to help you feel better.

Therapy After Psychosis: Moving Forward

Therapy is not the first line of care during active psychosis. If you are in crisis, please seek emergency medical support first.

Once you are stable and no longer in an acute episode, therapy can be an important part of recovery. Processing what happened, rebuilding trust in yourself, and finding tools for ongoing stability are all steps you don’t have to take alone.

At Thrive Well Therapy, I work with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, and life transitions, including integrating experiences after psychosis, when you’re ready and medically stable we explore what you need to know to heal root causes and live a happier, more free life

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✨ When you’ve come through the storm and want support in healing and moving forward, I’d be honored to walk alongside you. Reach out to book a free consult and see if I'm right for you!