Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder

What is the definition for Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder?

Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder is a mental health condition in which an individual experiences psychotic symptoms, such as delusions or hallucinations, that are caused by the use or withdrawal of a substance, such as drugs or medications. The symptoms must be severe enough to impair the individual's functioning and are not better explained by a primary psychotic disorder, such as schizophrenia. The diagnosis is made when there is evidence that the substance is capable of producing the symptoms and when the symptoms persist beyond the usual duration of intoxication or withdrawal.

How many and what type of people does Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder affect?

Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder can affect anyone who uses or withdraws from a substance that is capable of producing the symptoms. The disorder can occur in people with or without a history of mental illness. The prevalence of substance-induced psychotic disorder varies depending on the substance and population studied. Common substances associated with substance-induced psychotic disorder include alcohol, cannabis, hallucinogens, stimulants, and sedatives. Substance-induced psychotic disorder can be a transient condition that resolves once the substance use or withdrawal has ended, but it can also be a persistent and chronic condition in some cases.

What are the symptoms of Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder?

The symptoms of Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder can include:

• Delusions: False, fixed beliefs that are not based in reality, such as paranoia or grandiosity.

• Hallucinations: Sensory experiences that are not real, such as hearing voices or seeing things that are not there.

• Disorganized thinking and speech: Difficulty organizing thoughts or expressing them coherently.

• Grossly disorganized or abnormal motor behavior: Unusual behavior, such as agitation or catatonia.

• Negative symptoms: Lack of emotional expression or motivation, reduced speech, and social withdrawal.

These symptoms must be severe enough to cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning, and must not be better explained by another mental disorder. The onset of symptoms is usually associated with substance use or withdrawal and typically resolves within a few weeks of abstinence.

What are the diagnosis criteria for Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder?

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the diagnostic criteria for substance-induced psychotic disorder are:

• The presence of one or both of the following:

• Delusions.

• Hallucinations.

• There is evidence from the history, physical examination, or laboratory findings of either: Substance intoxication or withdrawal, Medication side effects.

• The symptoms in Criterion A developed during or soon after substance intoxication, withdrawal, or exposure to a medication; medication exposure is known to be etiologically related to the symptoms.

• The involved substance/medication is capable of producing the symptoms in Criterion A.

• The disturbance is not better explained by a primary psychotic disorder, such as schizophrenia, and is not merely an exacerbation of a preexisting psychotic disorder.

• The disturbance does not occur exclusively during the course of a delirium.

• The symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

• The symptoms are not due to a general medical condition and are not better accounted for by another mental disorder.

What are strategies and therapies for overcoming Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder?

The treatment of Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder typically involves addressing the underlying substance use or medication that is causing the symptoms. The specific strategies and treatments for overcoming the disorder may include:

• Detoxification: The first step in treating substance-induced psychotic disorder is often to remove the substance from the person's body through a medically supervised detoxification process.

• Medications: Antipsychotic medications may be used to treat the psychotic symptoms of the disorder. Other medications may be used to address specific symptoms or underlying conditions, such as anxiety or depression.

• Psychotherapy: Individual and group therapy can be effective in helping the person learn coping skills, manage symptoms, and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to the substance use.

• Rehabilitation: Inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs can provide comprehensive treatment, including detoxification, counseling, education, and support.

• Self-help groups: Peer support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, can provide ongoing support and encouragement for people in recovery.

• Lifestyle changes: Making healthy lifestyle choices, such as getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep, can help improve overall physical and mental health and support recovery.

The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual's needs, the substance involved, and the severity of the symptoms. It is important to seek professional help for Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder as it can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

This content is provided for informational and entertainment value only. It is not a replacement for a trained professional's diagnosis or for the treatment of any illness. If you feel like you are struggling with this condition, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. With the right treatment and support, individuals with this condition can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. BetterPsych provides full psychological services via telehealth and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee on our services. For more information and to find a therapist specializing in this disorder, please call (833) 496-5011, or visit https://www.betterpsych.com.