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Treatment for Psychotic Disorders
in Sacramento, CA

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At Sacramento Mental Health, we understand that psychotic disorders encompass a spectrum of mental health conditions marked by episodes of psychosis that significantly distort one’s perception of reality. This group of disorders primarily includes conditions such as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, along with other mental health issues that can lead to psychotic symptoms.

Statistics reveal that as many as 3 in 100 people will have an episode at some Point in their lives, with the first occurrences typically emerging in late adolescence or early adulthood. At our center, we are committed to addressing the complexities of these disorders with a comprehensive approach that combines empathy and expertise. Our treatment programs are meticulously crafted to meet the specific needs and challenges of each individual, ensuring a personalized path to recovery and well-being.

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Psychosis as a Symptom

Many people associate psychosis with a total loss of touch with reality, yet the condition is more complex and subtle than this broad generalization suggests. Psychosis alters an individual’s perception of reality, resulting in experiences that can be perplexing and deeply distressing.

At Sacramento Mental Health, we acknowledge that psychosis affects sensory perceptions, thoughts, and emotions, manifesting primarily through hallucinations and delusions:

  • Hallucinations are sensory experiences that appear real but are not, such as hearing non-existent voices, feeling strange sensations, or seeing things that others do not see.
  • Delusions involve strong beliefs in realities that are clearly false to others but are convincingly real to the person experiencing them. These may include exaggerated feelings of personal power, overinterpretation of trivial events, or pervasive fears of being harmed or controlled by others.

Beyond these, individuals with psychosis may also experience cognitive impairments, concentration challenges, anxiety, restlessness, altered eating habits, persistent adherence to false beliefs, loss of interest in enjoyable activities, and neglect of personal hygiene.

At Sacramento Mental Health, we tailor our care to the individual needs of each patient, recognizing that experiences of psychosis can vary widely. Our treatment programs are designed to provide holistic and compassionate care, addressing the wide spectrum of symptoms in a supportive and understanding environment.

Types of Psychotic Disorders

At Sacramento Mental Health, we address a spectrum of mental health conditions associated with psychosis, including those specifically classified as psychotic disorders:

  • Schizophrenia — This disorder is often the most recognized among psychotic conditions. Typically appearing in late adolescence or early adulthood, schizophrenia is influenced by genetic factors and is marked by hallucinations and delusions.
  • Schizoaffective Disorder — Combining elements of psychosis and mood disorders, schizoaffective disorder can stem from genetic predispositions and may be exacerbated by severe substance use. Its symptoms span depression, bipolar disorder features, hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions.
  • Bipolar Disorder — While primarily known as a mood disorder, bipolar disorder can manifest psychosis during extreme manic phases. This occurrence is known as bipolar with psychotic features and is relatively rare.
  • Catatonia — Once categorized as a subtype of schizophrenia, catatonia involves a psychomotor disturbance that severely impacts speech and motor functions and can include psychotic symptoms.
  • Substance Use Disorder — The link between substance use and psychosis is intricate, often presenting a chicken-and-egg dilemma. Substance abuse can precipitate or intensify psychotic symptoms, particularly with the use of marijuana and hallucinogens, and may trigger conditions like schizophrenia.
  • Other Disorders — Some mental health conditions may show psychotic episodes as secondary to their primary symptoms. The origins of these disorders are multifaceted, typically involving genetic influences and abnormalities in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate. At Sacramento Mental Health, we provide a comprehensive approach to understanding and treating these complex disorders, recognizing their varied causes and manifestations.

Treating Psychotic Disorders

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Effective management of psychotic disorders at Sacramento Mental Health typically involves an integrated approach that includes medication and psychotherapy. Consulting with one of our psychiatrists can lead to a precise diagnosis and the development of a personalized treatment strategy.

Medications — These often serve as the foundational treatment for psychotic disorders. The main aim of such medications is to balance neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin and dopamine, helping to reduce symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. Depending on the diagnosis, your psychiatrist may recommend antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, or antidepressants.

Psychotherapy — Also crucial in treating all types of mental health issues, including psychotic disorders, psychotherapy (or talk therapy) plays a key role. It helps patients tackle challenging emotions, thoughts, and behaviors effectively. At Sacramento Mental Health, we prioritize a holistic therapeutic approach to foster recovery and enhance overall well-being.

How Centers Can Help

Treatment centers are specifically designed to provide an ideal healing environment for individuals dealing with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. These facilities are staffed by dedicated professionals and are well-equipped with specialized resources aimed at assisting individuals in managing symptoms and implementing substantial life changes. Experienced psychiatrists and skilled therapists work together to create comprehensive treatment plans that incorporate a range of therapeutic techniques.

Within these centers, clients receive tailored care in residential settings that foster the healing process and aid in the development of vital coping skills for navigating daily challenges. Treatment generally includes medication-assisted treatment (MAT), along with individual, group, and family therapy sessions.

Furthermore, the aftercare services offered at these centers are structured to connect clients with community resources and establish long-term recovery goals. With around-the-clock support, clients are meticulously guided through their recovery journey, ensuring they receive the necessary support every step of the way.

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