🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 98 (from laksa173)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa098.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis","crawl_time":1769311337,"first_indexed_time":1684365994,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,healthline!www,\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis s443","src_root_hash":"11478817528691466898","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Stress-Induced Psychosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment","meta_descriptions":["Stress-induced psychosis can be a difficult and scary experience for you and your loved ones, but recovery is possible. Here’s what you should know."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Psychosis can be triggered by severe stress or trauma. The symptoms of stress-induced psychosis include hallucinations and delusions.\nStress is a natural part of everyday life, but extreme stress can take its toll on your mental health. In severe cases, stress can trigger psychosis.\nPsychosis isn’t a mental health condition in itself but a group of symptoms. It’s relatively rare. According to the National Institute of Mental Health,\nbetween 15 and 100 people out of every 100,000\nexperience psychosis each year.\nStress may trigger psychosis in people living with lifelong mental health conditions like\nbipolar disorder\nand\nschizophrenia\n.\nBut individual episodes of psychosis — particularly those called brief psychotic disorder — can also be triggered by severe stress.\nHallucinations:\nThese involve seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, or feeling things that don’t exist outside of your mind (for example, you may hear the voice of someone who isn’t there).\nDelusions:\nThese involve believing in something untrue (for example, you may believe someone wants to hurt or kill you, or you may believe you have power, magical abilities, or authority you don’t actually have).\nConfused and disturbed thoughts:\nThese may cause you to speak rapidly or to change conversational topics abruptly.\nDuring psychosis, you may also experience:\nimpulsive behavior or behavior that’s reckless or disorganized\nnegative symptoms, such as a lack of interest in regular activities, an ungroomed appearance, not participating in usual routines, or not showing emotion\ncatatonia\n, which is where you may seem “frozen” and be unable to move or speak much\nEpisodes are usually accompanied by a lack of self-awareness. You may be unable to recognize that you’re experiencing delusions or hallucinations.\nSome people may realize that they need mental health help during an episode of psychosis, but they may be afraid to get help, or their delusions might stop them.\nFor example, a person may believe that doctors and nurses are conspiring against them and might avoid calling emergency services.\nThis is why it’s important to intervene if you think your loved one is experiencing an episode of psychosis.\nTypically, stress-induced psychosis is triggered by extremely stressful or\ntraumatic events\n.\nFor example, stress-induced psychosis can be caused by:\nthe death of a loved one\nwitnessing or experiencing an act of violence or abuse\ncar accidents\nnatural disaster\nchildbirth\nwar\nBecause there can be multiple possible causes of psychosis, it isn’t always easy for clinicians to determine what triggered an episode. Multiple stressors or contributing factors may play a role.\nGenetics may play a role in whether or not someone develops a psychotic disorder. But not everybody who experiences stress-induced psychosis has a psychotic disorder.\nFor example, stress can lead to\nbrief psychotic disorder\n, which is where an episode lasts between 1 and 30 days. Your symptoms will resolve after this period but may return in the future.\nYou may be\nmore likely\nto develop brief psychotic disorder if you:\nare female\nare in your 20s, 30s, or 40s\nhave a\npersonality disorder\nor\nmood disorder\nare an immigrant or refugee\nlive in a developing country\nBrief psychotic disorder isn’t always caused by stress or trauma — and not all stress-induced psychosis fits the diagnostic criteria for brief psychotic disorder.\nFor example, stress might play a role in triggering episodes of psychosis in people living with\nschizophrenia\n.\nA genetic component may also determine who experiences stress-induced psychosis and who doesn’t. One\n2007 study\nfound that a certain genotype — the COMT Val(158)Met genotype — may make people more susceptible to stress-induced psychosis.\nYour treatment will depend on the cause of psychosis. Brief psychotic disorder, for example, is treated differently from schizophrenia.\nPsychosis treatment may include:\nantipsychotic medications\nbenzodiazepines\ntalk therapy\n, which can include individual or\ngroup therapy\nIn some cases, inpatient treatment — where you stay overnight in a psychiatric facility to receive ongoing observation and support — may be necessary.\nInpatient treatment can be especially helpful if your home environment is adding to your stress levels or if you’re at risk of self-harm.\nPsychosis can be a complication of a number of underlying conditions, some lifelong and some short term. Your outlook will depend on your underlying condition.\nFor example:\nBrief psychotic disorder:\nBrief psychotic disorder may occur once only. But once you experience it, it’s possible for it to occur again.\nBipolar disorder:\nBipolar disorder can sometimes include episodes of psychosis. Although bipolar disorder is a chronic condition that can’t be cured, it\ncan be managed\nthrough medication and therapy.\nPostpartum psychosis:\nPostpartum psychosis eventually goes away when treated with medication and therapy, but it’s possible to experience psychosis again, especially if you give birth again.\nSchizophrenia:\nSchizophrenia is also a chronic condition that can’t be cured, but\nmedication and therapy\nmay help you manage the symptoms.\nSchizophreniform disorder:\nSchizophreniform disorder is a type of schizophrenia where you experience schizophrenia symptoms briefly and recover fully. You may continue medication to prevent a relapse for\nup to a year\n.\nIn general, a combination of medication and therapy can reduce your chances of experiencing psychosis again.\nCan a panic attack feel like an episode of psychosis?\nIn the midst of a panic attack, you might worry that you’re experiencing psychosis or a\nmental breakdown\n.\nDuring a\npanic attack\n, you might experience difficulty thinking clearly or talking in coherent sentences. You may also experience dissociation, depersonalization, or derealization.\nThis might make you feel like nothing around you is real, or like you’re detached from reality. But hallucinations and delusions aren’t typical symptoms of panic attacks.\nWhat else can cause psychosis?\nBrief psychotic disorder can occur without a major stressor or traumatic event. Sometimes, it occurs without a particular trigger.\nPsychosis may also occur because of mental health conditions like schizophrenia, postpartum psychosis, and bipolar disorder.\nPsychosis can also be triggered by:\nsubstance use\nsleep deprivation\nhormonal disturbances\nbrain injuries\ndementia\nbrain tumor\nIs psychosis the same as depersonalization, derealization, or dissociation?\nNo. With psychosis, you firmly believe that your delusions are real. With depersonalization, derealization, or dissociation, you feel\ndisconnected from the world\nand as if your actions and surroundings are surreal. But you’re not questioning reality.\nDepersonalization\nis where you feel disconnected from your thoughts and feelings, like they aren’t real or like they don’t really belong to you. You might feel like you’re outside your body, watching yourself like you’re watching a movie.\nDerealization is where you feel disconnected from your surroundings. The people and environment around you might not feel real. They might feel foggy, distorted, or artificial.\nDissociation\n, on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to feeling disconnected from your own feelings, thoughts, and surroundings. Dissociation might include depersonalization and derealization.\nAlthough dissociation may be a symptom of a mental health condition, it isn’t a mental health condition in itself.\nWhat mental health conditions are associated with psychosis?\nPsychosis is associated with a range of mental health conditions, including:\nbipolar disorder\ndelusional disorder\npostpartum psychosis\npsychotic depression\nschizophrenia\nschizophreniform disorder\nBut having an episode of psychosis doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a chronic mental health condition.\nPsychosis may be triggered by traumatic events and extreme stress. Your genetics, mental health, and environment may play a role in whether you develop stress-induced psychosis.\nPsychosis can also be a complication of a chronic mental health condition, like schizophrenia and postpartum psychosis.\nStress-induced psychosis can be a difficult and scary experience for you and your loved ones, but recovery is possible. You may benefit from a combination of therapy, medication, and self-care strategies.\nIf you think you’re experiencing psychosis, or if a loved one is displaying the symptoms of psychosis, call 911 or local emergency medical services as soon as possible.\nSian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based, empathetically delivered information.","attrs_markdown":"- Health Conditions\n  ### Health Conditions\n  [All](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/directory\/topics)\n  \n  - [Breast Cancer](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/breast-cancer)\n  - [Cancer Care](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/cancer-care)\n  - [Caregiving for Alzheimer's Disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/alzheimers-disease)\n  - [Chronic Kidney Disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/ckd)\n  - [Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/copd)\n  - [Digestive Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/digestive-health)\n  - [Eye Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/eye-health)\n  - [Heart Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/heart-health)\n  - [Menopause](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/menopause)\n  - [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/mental-health)\n  - [Migraine](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/migraine)\n  - 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Connect with us for all things health.\n\nSubscribe\n\n# What Is Stress-Induced Psychosis?\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Ifeanyi-Olele-Headshot-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Ifeanyi Olele, DO, MBA, MS, FAPA]() — Written by [Sian Ferguson]()  on May 17, 2023\n\n- [Symptoms](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis#symptoms)\n- [Causes](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis#causes)\n- [Risk factors](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis#risk-factors)\n- [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis#diagnosis)\n- [Treatment](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis#treatment)\n- [Outlook](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis#outlook)\n- [FAQs](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis#fa-qs)\n- [Takeaway](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-induced-psychosis#takeaway)\n\nPsychosis can be triggered by severe stress or trauma. The symptoms of stress-induced psychosis include hallucinations and delusions.\n\nStress is a natural part of everyday life, but extreme stress can take its toll on your mental health. In severe cases, stress can trigger psychosis.\n\nPsychosis isn’t a mental health condition in itself but a group of symptoms. It’s relatively rare. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, [between 15 and 100 people out of every 100,000](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/understanding-psychosis) experience psychosis each year.\n\nStress may trigger psychosis in people living with lifelong mental health conditions like [bipolar disorder](http:\/\/healthline.com\/health\/bipolar-disorder) and [schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/schizophrenia).\n\nBut individual episodes of psychosis — particularly those called brief psychotic disorder — can also be triggered by severe stress.\n\n## [What are the symptoms of stress-induced psychosis?]()\nThe main symptoms of [psychosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/psychosis) are:\n\n- **Hallucinations:** These involve seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, or feeling things that don’t exist outside of your mind (for example, you may hear the voice of someone who isn’t there).\n- **Delusions:** These involve believing in something untrue (for example, you may believe someone wants to hurt or kill you, or you may believe you have power, magical abilities, or authority you don’t actually have).\n- **Confused and disturbed thoughts:** These may cause you to speak rapidly or to change conversational topics abruptly.\n\nDuring psychosis, you may also experience:\n\n- impulsive behavior or behavior that’s reckless or disorganized\n- negative symptoms, such as a lack of interest in regular activities, an ungroomed appearance, not participating in usual routines, or not showing emotion\n- [catatonia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/depression\/catatonic-depression), which is where you may seem “frozen” and be unable to move or speak much\n\nEpisodes are usually accompanied by a lack of self-awareness. You may be unable to recognize that you’re experiencing delusions or hallucinations.\n\nSome people may realize that they need mental health help during an episode of psychosis, but they may be afraid to get help, or their delusions might stop them.\n\nFor example, a person may believe that doctors and nurses are conspiring against them and might avoid calling emergency services.\n\nThis is why it’s important to intervene if you think your loved one is experiencing an episode of psychosis.\n\n## [What exactly causes stress-induced psychosis?]()\nTypically, stress-induced psychosis is triggered by extremely stressful or [traumatic events](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/traumatic-events).\n\nFor example, stress-induced psychosis can be caused by:\n\n- [the death of a loved one](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stages-of-grief)\n- witnessing or experiencing an act of violence or abuse\n- car accidents\n- natural disaster\n- [childbirth](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/parenting\/postpartum-psychosis)\n- war\n\nBecause there can be multiple possible causes of psychosis, it isn’t always easy for clinicians to determine what triggered an episode. Multiple stressors or contributing factors may play a role.\n\n## [Are some people more likely to develop stress-induced psychosis than others?]()\nGenetics may play a role in whether or not someone develops a psychotic disorder. But not everybody who experiences stress-induced psychosis has a psychotic disorder.\n\nFor example, stress can lead to [brief psychotic disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/brief-psychotic-disorder), which is where an episode lasts between 1 and 30 days. Your symptoms will resolve after this period but may return in the future.\n\nYou may be [more likely](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK539912\/) to develop brief psychotic disorder if you:\n\n- are female\n- are in your 20s, 30s, or 40s\n- have a [personality disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/personality-disorders) or [mood disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/affective-disorders)\n- are an immigrant or refugee\n- live in a developing country\n\nBrief psychotic disorder isn’t always caused by stress or trauma — and not all stress-induced psychosis fits the diagnostic criteria for brief psychotic disorder.\n\nFor example, stress might play a role in triggering episodes of psychosis in people living with [schizophrenia](https:\/\/psychcentral.com\/schizophrenia\/stress-and-schizophrenia).\n\nA genetic component may also determine who experiences stress-induced psychosis and who doesn’t. One [2007 study](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/17640440\/) found that a certain genotype — the COMT Val(158)Met genotype — may make people more susceptible to stress-induced psychosis.\n\n## [How is stress-induced psychosis diagnosed?]()\nA healthcare professional will conduct a [psychiatric evaluation](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-status-tests), asking questions about your thoughts and experiences and observing your behavior, to assess your symptoms.\n\nThe clinician may also run tests to determine whether your symptoms are associated with an underlying health condition or substance use.\n\nThe diagnosis ultimately depends on the duration of your symptoms:\n\n- **Brief psychotic disorder:** 1 to 30 days\n- **[Schizophreniform disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/schizophrenia\/schizophreniform):** 1 to 6 months\n- **[Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/schizophrenia):** longer than 6 months\n\nPsychosis may also be a symptom of:\n\n- [bipolar disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/bipolar-disorder\/bipolar-psychosis)\n- [delusional disorder](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/delusional-disorder)\n- [postpartum psychosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/parenting\/postpartum-psychosis)\n- [psychotic depression](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/conditions\/psychotic-depression\/)\n\n## [How is stress-induced psychosis treated?]()\nYour treatment will depend on the cause of psychosis. Brief psychotic disorder, for example, is treated differently from schizophrenia.\n\nPsychosis treatment may include:\n\n- [antipsychotic medications](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/schizophrenia\/atypical-antipsychotics-schizophrenia)\n- [benzodiazepines](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/bipolar-disorder\/benzodiazepines)\n- [talk therapy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/talk-therapy), which can include individual or [group therapy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/online-group-therapy)\n\nIn some cases, inpatient treatment — where you stay overnight in a psychiatric facility to receive ongoing observation and support — may be necessary.\n\nInpatient treatment can be especially helpful if your home environment is adding to your stress levels or if you’re at risk of self-harm.\n\n## [What’s the outlook for someone experiencing stress-induced psychosis?]()\nPsychosis can be a complication of a number of underlying conditions, some lifelong and some short term. Your outlook will depend on your underlying condition.\n\nFor example:\n\n- **Brief psychotic disorder:** Brief psychotic disorder may occur once only. But once you experience it, it’s possible for it to occur again.\n- **Bipolar disorder:** Bipolar disorder can sometimes include episodes of psychosis. Although bipolar disorder is a chronic condition that can’t be cured, it [can be managed](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/bipolar-disorder\/bipolar-treatment-assessment) through medication and therapy.\n- **Postpartum psychosis:** Postpartum psychosis eventually goes away when treated with medication and therapy, but it’s possible to experience psychosis again, especially if you give birth again.\n- **Schizophrenia:** Schizophrenia is also a chronic condition that can’t be cured, but [medication and therapy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/schizophrenia-treatment) may help you manage the symptoms.\n- **Schizophreniform disorder:** Schizophreniform disorder is a type of schizophrenia where you experience schizophrenia symptoms briefly and recover fully. You may continue medication to prevent a relapse for [up to a year](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyt.2020.00566\/full).\n\nIn general, a combination of medication and therapy can reduce your chances of experiencing psychosis again.\n\nTherapy for psychosis often includes learning [stress-reduction techniques](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/16-ways-relieve-stress-anxiety) so that you build skills that enable you to [cope with anxiety](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/how-to-cope-with-anxiety)\\-inducing situations.\n\n## [Other frequently asked questions]()\n### Can a panic attack feel like an episode of psychosis?\nIn the midst of a panic attack, you might worry that you’re experiencing psychosis or a [mental breakdown](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/nervous-breakdown).\n\nDuring a [panic attack](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/panic-disorder), you might experience difficulty thinking clearly or talking in coherent sentences. You may also experience dissociation, depersonalization, or derealization.\n\nThis might make you feel like nothing around you is real, or like you’re detached from reality. But hallucinations and delusions aren’t typical symptoms of panic attacks.\n\n### What else can cause psychosis?\nBrief psychotic disorder can occur without a major stressor or traumatic event. Sometimes, it occurs without a particular trigger.\n\nPsychosis may also occur because of mental health conditions like schizophrenia, postpartum psychosis, and bipolar disorder.\n\nPsychosis can also be triggered by:\n\n- substance use\n- [sleep deprivation](https:\/\/psychcentral.com\/health\/sleep-deprivation-psychosis)\n- [hormonal disturbances](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyt.2020.00693\/full)\n- [brain injuries](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/head-injury)\n- [dementia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/dementia-related-psychosis)\n- [brain tumor](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/brain-tumor)\n### Is psychosis the same as depersonalization, derealization, or dissociation?\nNo. With psychosis, you firmly believe that your delusions are real. With depersonalization, derealization, or dissociation, you feel [disconnected from the world](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/dissociation-coping) and as if your actions and surroundings are surreal. But you’re not questioning reality.\n\n[Depersonalization](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/coping-with-depersonalization) is where you feel disconnected from your thoughts and feelings, like they aren’t real or like they don’t really belong to you. You might feel like you’re outside your body, watching yourself like you’re watching a movie.\n\nDerealization is where you feel disconnected from your surroundings. The people and environment around you might not feel real. They might feel foggy, distorted, or artificial.\n\n[Dissociation](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/262888), on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to feeling disconnected from your own feelings, thoughts, and surroundings. Dissociation might include depersonalization and derealization.\n\nAlthough dissociation may be a symptom of a mental health condition, it isn’t a mental health condition in itself.\n\n### What mental health conditions are associated with psychosis?\nPsychosis is associated with a range of mental health conditions, including:\n\n- bipolar disorder\n- delusional disorder\n- postpartum psychosis\n- psychotic depression\n- schizophrenia\n- schizophreniform disorder\n\nBut having an episode of psychosis doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a chronic mental health condition.\n\n## [The bottom line]()\nPsychosis may be triggered by traumatic events and extreme stress. Your genetics, mental health, and environment may play a role in whether you develop stress-induced psychosis.\n\nPsychosis can also be a complication of a chronic mental health condition, like schizophrenia and postpartum psychosis.\n\nStress-induced psychosis can be a difficult and scary experience for you and your loved ones, but recovery is possible. You may benefit from a combination of therapy, medication, and self-care strategies.\n\nIf you think you’re experiencing psychosis, or if a loved one is displaying the symptoms of psychosis, call 911 or local emergency medical services as soon as possible.\n***\n*Sian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based, empathetically delivered information.*\n\n### How we reviewed this article:\nSources\n\nHistory\n\nHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/process).\n\n- Brzezinski-Sinai NA, et al. (2020). Schizophrenia and sex hormones: What is the link?  \n  <https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyt.2020.00693\/full>\n- Calabrese J, et al. (2022). Psychosis.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK546579\/>\n- Causes — Psychosis. (2022).  \n  <https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/conditions\/psychosis\/causes\/>\n- Cheng Z, et al. (2020). Which subgroup of first-episode schizophrenia patients can remit during the first year of antipsychotic treatment?  \n  <https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyt.2020.00566\/full>\n- Corcoran C, et al. (2002). Could stress cause psychosis in individuals vulnerable to schizophrenia?  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2774708\/>\n- Provenzani U, et al. (2021). Clinical outcomes in brief psychotic episodes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8581951\/>\n- Psychosis. (n.d.).  \n  <https:\/\/www.aacap.org\/aacap\/Families_and_Youth\/Glossary_of_Symptoms_and_Illnesses\/Psychosis.aspx>\n- Psychosis. (n.d.).  \n  <https:\/\/www.nami.org\/About-Mental-Illness\/Mental-Health-Conditions\/Psychosis>\n- Psychotic depression. (2023).  \n  <https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/conditions\/psychotic-depression\/>\n- Schizophrenia. (2022).  \n  <https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/schizophrenia>\n- Schizophrenia. (2023).  \n  <https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/schizophrenia>\n- Stefanis NC, et al. (2007). COMT Val158Met moderation of stress-induced psychosis.  \n  <https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/17640440\/>\n- Stephen A, et al. (2022). Brief psychotic disorder.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK539912\/>\n- Symptoms — Psychosis. (2022).  \n  <https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/conditions\/psychosis\/symptoms\/>\n- Understanding psychosis. (n.d.).  \n  <https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/understanding-psychosis>\n- van Winkel R, et al. (2008). Psychosocial stress and psychosis. A review of the neurobiological mechanisms and the evidence for gene-stress interaction.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2632486\/>\n\nShare this article\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Ifeanyi-Olele-Headshot-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Ifeanyi Olele, DO, MBA, MS, FAPA]() — Written by [Sian Ferguson]()  on May 17, 2023\n\n## related stories\n- [What We Do — and Don’t — Know About the Link Between Cannabis and Psychosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/substance-use\/cannabis-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Understanding Neurosis vs. Psychosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/neurosis-vs-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [My Experience with Psychosis — and My Recovery Journey](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/yna-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [It’s Time to Ditch Multitasking: Your Brain Wants to Monotask](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/healthy-lifestyle\/its-time-to-ditch-multitasking-your-brain-wants-to-monotask?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [How to Create a Stress-Free Workspace: Simple Changes That Make a Big Difference](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-to-create-a-stress-free-workspace?utm_source=ReadNext)\n\n### Read this next\n- [What We Do — and Don’t — Know About the Link Between Cannabis and Psychosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/substance-use\/cannabis-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Jeffrey Chen, MD, MBA](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [Experts continue to explore the link between cannabis and psychosis. Here's what they've learned so far.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/substance-use\/cannabis-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/substance-use\/cannabis-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Understanding Neurosis vs. Psychosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/neurosis-vs-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Nicole Washington, DO, MPH](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [Neurosis and psychosis refer to different — but sometimes overlapping — mental health conditions. Let's look at the details.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/neurosis-vs-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/neurosis-vs-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [My Experience with Psychosis — and My Recovery Journey](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/yna-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Francis Kuehnle, MSN, RN-BC](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [Psychosis is a mental condition that is highly stigmatized. Read about this writer's journey with experiencing psychosis, how they've recovered, and…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/yna-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/yna-psychosis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [It’s Time to Ditch Multitasking: Your Brain Wants to Monotask](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/healthy-lifestyle\/its-time-to-ditch-multitasking-your-brain-wants-to-monotask?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Feel pulled in a million directions? Deep breaths. Monotasking may be just what you need to avoid burnout.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/healthy-lifestyle\/its-time-to-ditch-multitasking-your-brain-wants-to-monotask?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/healthy-lifestyle\/its-time-to-ditch-multitasking-your-brain-wants-to-monotask?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [How to Create a Stress-Free Workspace: Simple Changes That Make a Big Difference](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-to-create-a-stress-free-workspace?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Joslyn Jelinek, LCSW, ACSW, RDDP](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [Discover practical tips and strategies to design a stress-free workspace that promotes productivity and well-being. Transform your environment with…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-to-create-a-stress-free-workspace?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-to-create-a-stress-free-workspace?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Is There a Connection Between Stress and Miscarriage?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress\/can-stress-cause-a-miscarriage?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Though stress doesn’t cause miscarriage, it can affect your pregnancy. Learning ways to reduce your stress can help you have a healthier pregnancy.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress\/can-stress-cause-a-miscarriage?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress\/can-stress-cause-a-miscarriage?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Here’s What You Need to Know About Toxic Stress](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/toxic-stress?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Toxic stress can occur when a child experiences severe and prolonged stress without enough support. Learn more about the potential signs and support…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/toxic-stress?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/toxic-stress?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Why Do I Get Stressed So Easily?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/why-do-i-get-stressed-so-easily?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [There are many reasons why you may feel stressed easily, including feeling pressure in your daily life. Learn more about how you can manage your…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/why-do-i-get-stressed-so-easily?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/why-do-i-get-stressed-so-easily?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Stress vs. Burnout: What’s the Difference?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-vs-burnout?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Joslyn Jelinek, LCSW, ACSW, RDDP](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [Stress and burnout are related, but they're not the same. If you experience stress over a prolonged period, it can sometimes lead to burnout.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-vs-burnout?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-vs-burnout?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [How Does Stress Affect Your Immune System?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-and-immune-system?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Avi Varma, MD, MPH, AAHIVS, FAAFP](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [Your body’s stress response can trigger several physiological changes, which can affect immune function. Learn more.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-and-immune-system?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress-and-immune-system?utm_source=ReadNext)\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/contact-us)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/privacy-policy)\n- [Privacy Settings](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/privacy-settings)\n- [Advertising Policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/advertising-policy)\n- [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/directory\/topics)\n\n- [Sitemap](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/sitemap)\n- [Medical Affairs](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n- [Content Integrity](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/content-integrity)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/newsletter-signup)\n- © 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. 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Boilerpipe Text	Psychosis can be triggered by severe stress or trauma. The symptoms of stress-induced psychosis include hallucinations and delusions. Stress is a natural part of everyday life, but extreme stress can take its toll on your mental health. In severe cases, stress can trigger psychosis. Psychosis isn’t a mental health condition in itself but a group of symptoms. It’s relatively rare. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, between 15 and 100 people out of every 100,000 experience psychosis each year. Stress may trigger psychosis in people living with lifelong mental health conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia . But individual episodes of psychosis — particularly those called brief psychotic disorder — can also be triggered by severe stress. Hallucinations: These involve seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, or feeling things that don’t exist outside of your mind (for example, you may hear the voice of someone who isn’t there). Delusions: These involve believing in something untrue (for example, you may believe someone wants to hurt or kill you, or you may believe you have power, magical abilities, or authority you don’t actually have). Confused and disturbed thoughts: These may cause you to speak rapidly or to change conversational topics abruptly. During psychosis, you may also experience: impulsive behavior or behavior that’s reckless or disorganized negative symptoms, such as a lack of interest in regular activities, an ungroomed appearance, not participating in usual routines, or not showing emotion catatonia , which is where you may seem “frozen” and be unable to move or speak much Episodes are usually accompanied by a lack of self-awareness. You may be unable to recognize that you’re experiencing delusions or hallucinations. Some people may realize that they need mental health help during an episode of psychosis, but they may be afraid to get help, or their delusions might stop them. For example, a person may believe that doctors and nurses are conspiring against them and might avoid calling emergency services. This is why it’s important to intervene if you think your loved one is experiencing an episode of psychosis. Typically, stress-induced psychosis is triggered by extremely stressful or traumatic events . For example, stress-induced psychosis can be caused by: the death of a loved one witnessing or experiencing an act of violence or abuse car accidents natural disaster childbirth war Because there can be multiple possible causes of psychosis, it isn’t always easy for clinicians to determine what triggered an episode. Multiple stressors or contributing factors may play a role. Genetics may play a role in whether or not someone develops a psychotic disorder. But not everybody who experiences stress-induced psychosis has a psychotic disorder. For example, stress can lead to brief psychotic disorder , which is where an episode lasts between 1 and 30 days. Your symptoms will resolve after this period but may return in the future. You may be more likely to develop brief psychotic disorder if you: are female are in your 20s, 30s, or 40s have a personality disorder or mood disorder are an immigrant or refugee live in a developing country Brief psychotic disorder isn’t always caused by stress or trauma — and not all stress-induced psychosis fits the diagnostic criteria for brief psychotic disorder. For example, stress might play a role in triggering episodes of psychosis in people living with schizophrenia . A genetic component may also determine who experiences stress-induced psychosis and who doesn’t. One 2007 study found that a certain genotype — the COMT Val(158)Met genotype — may make people more susceptible to stress-induced psychosis. Your treatment will depend on the cause of psychosis. Brief psychotic disorder, for example, is treated differently from schizophrenia. Psychosis treatment may include: antipsychotic medications benzodiazepines talk therapy , which can include individual or group therapy In some cases, inpatient treatment — where you stay overnight in a psychiatric facility to receive ongoing observation and support — may be necessary. Inpatient treatment can be especially helpful if your home environment is adding to your stress levels or if you’re at risk of self-harm. Psychosis can be a complication of a number of underlying conditions, some lifelong and some short term. Your outlook will depend on your underlying condition. For example: Brief psychotic disorder: Brief psychotic disorder may occur once only. But once you experience it, it’s possible for it to occur again. Bipolar disorder: Bipolar disorder can sometimes include episodes of psychosis. Although bipolar disorder is a chronic condition that can’t be cured, it can be managed through medication and therapy. Postpartum psychosis: Postpartum psychosis eventually goes away when treated with medication and therapy, but it’s possible to experience psychosis again, especially if you give birth again. Schizophrenia: Schizophrenia is also a chronic condition that can’t be cured, but medication and therapy may help you manage the symptoms. Schizophreniform disorder: Schizophreniform disorder is a type of schizophrenia where you experience schizophrenia symptoms briefly and recover fully. You may continue medication to prevent a relapse for up to a year . In general, a combination of medication and therapy can reduce your chances of experiencing psychosis again. Can a panic attack feel like an episode of psychosis? In the midst of a panic attack, you might worry that you’re experiencing psychosis or a mental breakdown . During a panic attack , you might experience difficulty thinking clearly or talking in coherent sentences. You may also experience dissociation, depersonalization, or derealization. This might make you feel like nothing around you is real, or like you’re detached from reality. But hallucinations and delusions aren’t typical symptoms of panic attacks. What else can cause psychosis? Brief psychotic disorder can occur without a major stressor or traumatic event. Sometimes, it occurs without a particular trigger. Psychosis may also occur because of mental health conditions like schizophrenia, postpartum psychosis, and bipolar disorder. Psychosis can also be triggered by: substance use sleep deprivation hormonal disturbances brain injuries dementia brain tumor Is psychosis the same as depersonalization, derealization, or dissociation? No. With psychosis, you firmly believe that your delusions are real. With depersonalization, derealization, or dissociation, you feel disconnected from the world and as if your actions and surroundings are surreal. But you’re not questioning reality. Depersonalization is where you feel disconnected from your thoughts and feelings, like they aren’t real or like they don’t really belong to you. You might feel like you’re outside your body, watching yourself like you’re watching a movie. Derealization is where you feel disconnected from your surroundings. The people and environment around you might not feel real. They might feel foggy, distorted, or artificial. Dissociation , on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to feeling disconnected from your own feelings, thoughts, and surroundings. Dissociation might include depersonalization and derealization. Although dissociation may be a symptom of a mental health condition, it isn’t a mental health condition in itself. What mental health conditions are associated with psychosis? Psychosis is associated with a range of mental health conditions, including: bipolar disorder delusional disorder postpartum psychosis psychotic depression schizophrenia schizophreniform disorder But having an episode of psychosis doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a chronic mental health condition. Psychosis may be triggered by traumatic events and extreme stress. Your genetics, mental health, and environment may play a role in whether you develop stress-induced psychosis. Psychosis can also be a complication of a chronic mental health condition, like schizophrenia and postpartum psychosis. Stress-induced psychosis can be a difficult and scary experience for you and your loved ones, but recovery is possible. You may benefit from a combination of therapy, medication, and self-care strategies. If you think you’re experiencing psychosis, or if a loved one is displaying the symptoms of psychosis, call 911 or local emergency medical services as soon as possible. Sian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based, empathetically delivered information.
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Connect with us for all things health. Subscribe # What Is Stress-Induced Psychosis? ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Ifeanyi-Olele-Headshot-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Ifeanyi Olele, DO, MBA, MS, FAPA]() — Written by [Sian Ferguson]() on May 17, 2023 - [Symptoms](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis#symptoms) - [Causes](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis#causes) - [Risk factors](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis#risk-factors) - [Diagnosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis#diagnosis) - [Treatment](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis#treatment) - [Outlook](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis#outlook) - [FAQs](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis#fa-qs) - [Takeaway](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-induced-psychosis#takeaway) Psychosis can be triggered by severe stress or trauma. The symptoms of stress-induced psychosis include hallucinations and delusions. Stress is a natural part of everyday life, but extreme stress can take its toll on your mental health. In severe cases, stress can trigger psychosis. Psychosis isn’t a mental health condition in itself but a group of symptoms. It’s relatively rare. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, [between 15 and 100 people out of every 100,000](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/understanding-psychosis) experience psychosis each year. Stress may trigger psychosis in people living with lifelong mental health conditions like [bipolar disorder](http://healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder) and [schizophrenia](https://www.healthline.com/health/schizophrenia). But individual episodes of psychosis — particularly those called brief psychotic disorder — can also be triggered by severe stress. ## [What are the symptoms of stress-induced psychosis?]() The main symptoms of [psychosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/psychosis) are: - Hallucinations: These involve seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, or feeling things that don’t exist outside of your mind (for example, you may hear the voice of someone who isn’t there). - Delusions: These involve believing in something untrue (for example, you may believe someone wants to hurt or kill you, or you may believe you have power, magical abilities, or authority you don’t actually have). - Confused and disturbed thoughts: These may cause you to speak rapidly or to change conversational topics abruptly. During psychosis, you may also experience: - impulsive behavior or behavior that’s reckless or disorganized - negative symptoms, such as a lack of interest in regular activities, an ungroomed appearance, not participating in usual routines, or not showing emotion - [catatonia](https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/catatonic-depression), which is where you may seem “frozen” and be unable to move or speak much Episodes are usually accompanied by a lack of self-awareness. You may be unable to recognize that you’re experiencing delusions or hallucinations. Some people may realize that they need mental health help during an episode of psychosis, but they may be afraid to get help, or their delusions might stop them. For example, a person may believe that doctors and nurses are conspiring against them and might avoid calling emergency services. This is why it’s important to intervene if you think your loved one is experiencing an episode of psychosis. ## [What exactly causes stress-induced psychosis?]() Typically, stress-induced psychosis is triggered by extremely stressful or [traumatic events](https://www.healthline.com/health/traumatic-events). For example, stress-induced psychosis can be caused by: - [the death of a loved one](https://www.healthline.com/health/stages-of-grief) - witnessing or experiencing an act of violence or abuse - car accidents - natural disaster - [childbirth](https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/postpartum-psychosis) - war Because there can be multiple possible causes of psychosis, it isn’t always easy for clinicians to determine what triggered an episode. Multiple stressors or contributing factors may play a role. ## [Are some people more likely to develop stress-induced psychosis than others?]() Genetics may play a role in whether or not someone develops a psychotic disorder. But not everybody who experiences stress-induced psychosis has a psychotic disorder. For example, stress can lead to [brief psychotic disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/brief-psychotic-disorder), which is where an episode lasts between 1 and 30 days. Your symptoms will resolve after this period but may return in the future. You may be [more likely](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539912/) to develop brief psychotic disorder if you: - are female - are in your 20s, 30s, or 40s - have a [personality disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/personality-disorders) or [mood disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/affective-disorders) - are an immigrant or refugee - live in a developing country Brief psychotic disorder isn’t always caused by stress or trauma — and not all stress-induced psychosis fits the diagnostic criteria for brief psychotic disorder. For example, stress might play a role in triggering episodes of psychosis in people living with [schizophrenia](https://psychcentral.com/schizophrenia/stress-and-schizophrenia). A genetic component may also determine who experiences stress-induced psychosis and who doesn’t. One [2007 study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17640440/) found that a certain genotype — the COMT Val(158)Met genotype — may make people more susceptible to stress-induced psychosis. ## [How is stress-induced psychosis diagnosed?]() A healthcare professional will conduct a [psychiatric evaluation](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-status-tests), asking questions about your thoughts and experiences and observing your behavior, to assess your symptoms. The clinician may also run tests to determine whether your symptoms are associated with an underlying health condition or substance use. The diagnosis ultimately depends on the duration of your symptoms: - Brief psychotic disorder: 1 to 30 days - [Schizophreniform disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/schizophrenia/schizophreniform): 1 to 6 months - [Schizophrenia](https://www.healthline.com/health/schizophrenia): longer than 6 months Psychosis may also be a symptom of: - [bipolar disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-psychosis) - [delusional disorder](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/delusional-disorder) - [postpartum psychosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/postpartum-psychosis) - [psychotic depression](https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/psychotic-depression/) ## [How is stress-induced psychosis treated?]() Your treatment will depend on the cause of psychosis. Brief psychotic disorder, for example, is treated differently from schizophrenia. Psychosis treatment may include: - [antipsychotic medications](https://www.healthline.com/health/schizophrenia/atypical-antipsychotics-schizophrenia) - [benzodiazepines](https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/benzodiazepines) - [talk therapy](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/talk-therapy), which can include individual or [group therapy](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/online-group-therapy) In some cases, inpatient treatment — where you stay overnight in a psychiatric facility to receive ongoing observation and support — may be necessary. Inpatient treatment can be especially helpful if your home environment is adding to your stress levels or if you’re at risk of self-harm. ## [What’s the outlook for someone experiencing stress-induced psychosis?]() Psychosis can be a complication of a number of underlying conditions, some lifelong and some short term. Your outlook will depend on your underlying condition. For example: - Brief psychotic disorder: Brief psychotic disorder may occur once only. But once you experience it, it’s possible for it to occur again. - Bipolar disorder: Bipolar disorder can sometimes include episodes of psychosis. Although bipolar disorder is a chronic condition that can’t be cured, it [can be managed](https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-treatment-assessment) through medication and therapy. - Postpartum psychosis: Postpartum psychosis eventually goes away when treated with medication and therapy, but it’s possible to experience psychosis again, especially if you give birth again. - Schizophrenia: Schizophrenia is also a chronic condition that can’t be cured, but [medication and therapy](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/schizophrenia-treatment) may help you manage the symptoms. - Schizophreniform disorder: Schizophreniform disorder is a type of schizophrenia where you experience schizophrenia symptoms briefly and recover fully. You may continue medication to prevent a relapse for [up to a year](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00566/full). In general, a combination of medication and therapy can reduce your chances of experiencing psychosis again. Therapy for psychosis often includes learning [stress-reduction techniques](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/16-ways-relieve-stress-anxiety) so that you build skills that enable you to [cope with anxiety](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/how-to-cope-with-anxiety)\-inducing situations. ## [Other frequently asked questions]() ### Can a panic attack feel like an episode of psychosis? In the midst of a panic attack, you might worry that you’re experiencing psychosis or a [mental breakdown](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/nervous-breakdown). During a [panic attack](https://www.healthline.com/health/panic-disorder), you might experience difficulty thinking clearly or talking in coherent sentences. You may also experience dissociation, depersonalization, or derealization. This might make you feel like nothing around you is real, or like you’re detached from reality. But hallucinations and delusions aren’t typical symptoms of panic attacks. ### What else can cause psychosis? Brief psychotic disorder can occur without a major stressor or traumatic event. Sometimes, it occurs without a particular trigger. Psychosis may also occur because of mental health conditions like schizophrenia, postpartum psychosis, and bipolar disorder. Psychosis can also be triggered by: - substance use - [sleep deprivation](https://psychcentral.com/health/sleep-deprivation-psychosis) - [hormonal disturbances](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00693/full) - [brain injuries](https://www.healthline.com/health/head-injury) - [dementia](https://www.healthline.com/health/dementia-related-psychosis) - [brain tumor](https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-tumor) ### Is psychosis the same as depersonalization, derealization, or dissociation? No. With psychosis, you firmly believe that your delusions are real. With depersonalization, derealization, or dissociation, you feel [disconnected from the world](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/dissociation-coping) and as if your actions and surroundings are surreal. But you’re not questioning reality. [Depersonalization](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/coping-with-depersonalization) is where you feel disconnected from your thoughts and feelings, like they aren’t real or like they don’t really belong to you. You might feel like you’re outside your body, watching yourself like you’re watching a movie. Derealization is where you feel disconnected from your surroundings. The people and environment around you might not feel real. They might feel foggy, distorted, or artificial. [Dissociation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/262888), on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to feeling disconnected from your own feelings, thoughts, and surroundings. Dissociation might include depersonalization and derealization. Although dissociation may be a symptom of a mental health condition, it isn’t a mental health condition in itself. ### What mental health conditions are associated with psychosis? Psychosis is associated with a range of mental health conditions, including: - bipolar disorder - delusional disorder - postpartum psychosis - psychotic depression - schizophrenia - schizophreniform disorder But having an episode of psychosis doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a chronic mental health condition. ## [The bottom line]() Psychosis may be triggered by traumatic events and extreme stress. Your genetics, mental health, and environment may play a role in whether you develop stress-induced psychosis. Psychosis can also be a complication of a chronic mental health condition, like schizophrenia and postpartum psychosis. Stress-induced psychosis can be a difficult and scary experience for you and your loved ones, but recovery is possible. You may benefit from a combination of therapy, medication, and self-care strategies. If you think you’re experiencing psychosis, or if a loved one is displaying the symptoms of psychosis, call 911 or local emergency medical services as soon as possible. *** Sian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based, empathetically delivered information. ### How we reviewed this article: Sources History Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.healthline.com/about/process). - Brzezinski-Sinai NA, et al. (2020). 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(n.d.). <https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Psychosis> - Psychotic depression. (2023). <https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/psychotic-depression/> - Schizophrenia. (2022). <https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/schizophrenia> - Schizophrenia. (2023). <https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia> - Stefanis NC, et al. (2007). COMT Val158Met moderation of stress-induced psychosis. <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17640440/> - Stephen A, et al. (2022). Brief psychotic disorder. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539912/> - Symptoms — Psychosis. (2022). <https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/psychosis/symptoms/> - Understanding psychosis. (n.d.). <https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/understanding-psychosis> - van Winkel R, et al. (2008). Psychosocial stress and psychosis. 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