🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:
Response:
Calculated Shard: 110 (from laksa116)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:
Response:

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:
Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:
Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

đź“„
INDEXABLE
âś…
CRAWLED
2 months ago
🤖
ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

FilterStatusConditionDetails
HTTP statusPASSdownload_http_code = 200HTTP 200
Age cutoffPASSdownload_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH3 months ago
History dropPASSisNull(history_drop_reason)No drop reason
Spam/banPASSfh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0ml_spam_score=0
CanonicalPASSmeta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsedNot set

Page Details

PropertyValue
URLhttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia
Last Crawled2026-01-17 10:35:06 (2 months ago)
First Indexed2023-05-23 23:07:03 (2 years ago)
HTTP Status Code200
Meta TitlePsychosis vs. schizophrenia: Understanding the differences
Meta DescriptionPsychosis is a common symptom of schizophrenia. However, there are other reasons a person may experience psychosis. Learn more here.
Meta Canonicalnull
Boilerpipe Text
Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that affects how a person behaves, thinks, and feels. Psychosis refers to a collection of symptoms that affect the mind and cause a loss of grasp on reality. Psychosis is a common symptom of schizophrenia. Doctors often diagnose schizophrenia between the ages of 16 and 30 when a person experiences their first psychotic episode. This article reviews the differences between schizophrenia and psychosis, what each is, how they relate, and the treatment options for each. Share on Pinterest Design by MNT; Photography by Peathegee Inc/Getty Images Westend61/Getty Images Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that relates to changes in how a person behaves, thinks, and feels. Often a doctor can diagnose the condition following a person’s first episode of psychosis. Psychosis is often a symptom of an underlying mental health condition, such as schizophrenia, severe depression , or bipolar disorder . The term refers to a collection of symptoms that affect the mind and can make it difficult for a person to determine what is real or not. While mental health conditions are often the cause of psychosis or psychotic episodes, they can appear on their own. In those cases, a person may experience symptoms due to alcohol or drug misuse, sleep deprivation , or the use of certain prescription medications. Psychosis is more common than schizophrenia. The exact number of people living with psychosis is unclear, but some estimate that about 15 to 100 people out of 100,000 develop psychosis each year in the United States. Comparatively, less than 1% of the population of the U.S. has schizophrenia. Psychosis is a term doctors use to refer to several symptoms that affect the mind. A person with psychosis will often experience disrupted thoughts and perceptions. This can make it difficult for them to determine what is and is not real. It typically starts in early adulthood, but older people may develop it due to conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease. Other common causes are mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that affects thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. A person with schizophrenia may appear to have lost touch with reality, which can distress family members and friends. The symptoms of schizophrenia can make it difficult for a person to participate in typical life activities, including school, work, and socializing. Experts typically break symptoms down into three main categories : Positive or psychotic symptoms: May include hallucinations, such as seeing things that do not exist, paranoia, and exaggerated or distorted perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors. Negative symptoms: Trouble speaking, initiating plans, speaking emotions, or finding pleasure in things. Disorganized symptoms: May include confused and disordered thinking and speech, trouble with thinking logically, and bizarre behavior or abnormal movements. Several factors may increase a person’s risk of developing schizophrenia, including: genetics environment, such as life experiences and surroundings changes in brain structure Schizophrenia can cause psychosis to occur, but psychosis may happen due to other mental health conditions, medications, diseases such as dementia , or misuse of alcohol or drugs. Experiencing a psychotic episode does not necessarily mean a person has schizophrenia. A doctor will typically rule out other possible causes before making a diagnosis of schizophrenia or other mental health condition. In both cases, a person may not know they are experiencing the condition. They may feel overwhelmed or confused. Psychosis treatment often involves the use of antipsychotic medications and therapies. Antipsychotic medications can help to reduce the intensity and frequency of psychotic episodes, but they cannot treat the underlying condition. Examples include: chlorpromazine (Thorazine) haloperidol (Haldol) clozapine (Clozaril) A multidisciplinary team can often help improve a person’s outcome. A coordinated team can help to share treatment decisions and include the person and their family directly in the treatment. Schizophrenia requires similar treatments to psychosis. A person will often benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that includes supervised use of antipsychotic medications, psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavior therapy, and education for caregivers and family members. With proper treatment, a person with schizophrenia can live a full life, participating in work, school, and social gatherings. Experts often break down psychosis into three phases: The prodrome phase, the acute phase, and the recovery phase. The prodrome phase often involves the early signs of psychosis, such as changes in how a person thinks about themselves and changes in feelings and behaviors. It can vary between people and last several months to over a year. The acute phase happens when a person starts to have psychosis symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, and very odd or disorganized speech or behaviors. The final stage is the recovery stage, where treatment starts to help reduce the severity of symptoms. Many people can successfully reach this stage when they begin treatment. Psychosis is often a symptom of schizophrenia. Psychosis is not a mental health condition, but it is a set of symptoms that relate to several possible underlying causes, including schizophrenia. Anyone can develop psychosis at some point in their life. Causes of psychosis include medications, mental health conditions, dementia, and drug or alcohol misuse. Psychosis is a collection of symptoms that cause a person to lose touch with reality. It is often a symptom of schizophrenia, but other conditions can trigger psychosis to occur as well. Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that leads to changes in how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. A person will need similar treatments when either occurs. Treatments are often successful when a person adheres to them and typically involve a multidisciplinary approach.
Markdown
- Health Conditions ### Health Conditions - [Alzheimer's & Dementia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/alzheimers-and-dementia) - [Anxiety](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/anxiety) - [Asthma & Allergies](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/asthma-and-allergies) - [Atopic Dermatitis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/program/investigating-atopic-dermatitis) - [Breast Cancer](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/breast-cancer) - [Cancer](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/cancer) - [Cardiovascular Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/cardiovascular-health) - [COVID-19](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/coronavirus?correlationId=2b137d5a-dcfb-464e-9ea6-72c5a54b4e92) - [Diabetes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/diabetes) - [Endometriosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/endometriosis) - [Environment & Sustainability](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/environment-and-sustainability) - [Exercise & Fitness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/exercise-and-fitness) - [Eye Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/eye-health) - [Headache & Migraine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/headache-and-migraine) - [Health Equity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/health-equity) - [HIV & AIDS](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/hiv-and-aids) - [Human Biology](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/human-biology) - [Leukemia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/leukemia) - [LGBTQIA+](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/LGBTQIA) - [Men's Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/mens-health) - [Mental Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/mental-health) - [Multiple Sclerosis (MS)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/multiple-sclerosis) - [Nutrition](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/nutrition) - [Parkinson's Disease](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/parkinsons-disease) - [Psoriasis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/psoriasis) - [Sexual Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/sexual-health) - [Ulcerative Colitis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/program/investigating-ulcerative-colitis) - [Women's Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/womens-health) - Health Products ### Health Products [All](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews) - [Nutrition & Fitness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/nutrition-and-fitness-products) - [Vitamins & Supplements](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/vitamin-and-supplement-products) - [CBD](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/cbd-products) - [Sleep](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/sleep-products) - [Mental Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/mental-health-services-and-products) - [At-Home Testing](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/at-home-testing-products) - [Men’s Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/mens-health-products) - [Women’s Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/womens-health-products) - Discover ### News - [Latest News](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/news) - [Medicare 2026 Costs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medicare-costs-3-key-changes-in-2026) ### Original Series - [Medical Myths](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/content-series/medical-myths) - [Honest Nutrition](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/content-series/honest-nutrition) - [Through My Eyes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/content-series/through-my-eyes) - [New Normal Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/content-series/new-normal-health) ### Podcasts [All](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/in-conversation-podcast) - [Artificial sweeteners and brain aging: What we know so far](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/artificial-sweeteners-and-brain-aging-what-we-know-so-far) - [Does the Mediterranean diet hold the key to longevity?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-the-mediterranean-diet-hold-the-key-to-longevity) - [AMA: Registered dietitian answers 5 key questions about fiber and weight loss](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-fiber-help-lose-weight-dietitian-answers-5-key-questions) - [Health misinformation and disinformation: How to avoid it](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/health-misinformation-and-disinformation-how-to-avoid-it) - [Brain health, sleep, diet: 3 health resolutions for 2025](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/brain-health-sleep-diet-3-health-resolutions-for-2025) - [5 things everyone should know about menopause](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/5-things-everyone-should-know-about-menopause) - Tools ### General Health - [Drugs A-Z](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/drugs) - [Health Hubs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/content-hubs) - [Newsletter](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/newsletter) - [Medicare Plans by State](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/health-medicare-state-coverage) ### Health Tools - [Find a Doctor](https://connect.medicalnewstoday.com/) - [BMI Calculators and Charts](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323586) - [Blood Pressure Chart: Ranges and Guide](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327077) - [Breast Cancer: Self-Examination Guide](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/316898) - [Sleep Calculator](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-calculator) ### Quizzes - [RA Myths vs Facts](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/science-fact-or-fiction-separating-ra-myths-from-facts#1) - [Type 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood Sugar](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/managing-blood-sugar-type-2-diabetes-quiz#1) - [Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/complementary-therapies-for-as-quiz#1) - Connect ### About Medical News Today - [Who We Are](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about) - [Our Editorial Process](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process) - [Content Integrity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/content-integrity) - [Conscious Language](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/conscious-language) ### Find Community - [Bezzy Breast Cancer](https://www.bezzybc.com/lp/2/?verzenio&utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) - [Bezzy MS](https://www.bezzyms.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) - [Bezzy Migraine](https://www.bezzymigraine.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) - [Bezzy Psoriasis](https://www.bezzypsoriasis.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) ### Follow Us Subscribe Explore more in - Causes & Risk Factors - Complications - Diagnosis - Home Remedies - Management - Treatment - Prognosis - Related Conditions - Stages - Symptoms - Types Schizophrenia #### Related Topics - ### Causes & Risk Factors Causes & Risk Factors #### Related Articles - [Can Cannibas Trigger?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/weed-induced-schizophrenia-symptoms) - [Religious Impacts](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/religious-schizophrenia) - [Trauma Induced](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/trauma-and-schizophrenia) - [Average Age of Onset](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-age-of-onset) - [Risk of Occurance](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-common-is-schizophrenia) - [Link to Dopamine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dopamine-and-schizophrenia) - [Genetic Impacts](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-and-genetics) - [Causes Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-do-you-get-schizophrenia) - ### Complications Complications #### Related Articles - [Impacts on Brain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-part-of-the-brain-is-affected-by-schizophrenia) - [Can It Affect Smell?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-smell) - [Decompensation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/decompensated-schizophrenia) - [Increased Risk of Parkinson's](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-may-increase-parkinsons-disease-risk) - ### Diagnosis Diagnosis #### Related Articles - [Brain Scans](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-schizophrenia-show-on-a-brain-scan) - [Can it Go Undiagnosed?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/undiagnosed-schizophrenia) - [Blood Tests](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/expert-perspectives-blood-tests-and-schizophrenia) - [Diagnosis Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-test) - ### Home Remedies Home Remedies #### Related Articles - [Alternative Treatments Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/alternative-treatments-for-schizophrenia) - [CBD Oil](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-cbd-oil-help-schizophrenia) - ### Management Management #### Related Articles - [Managing Relationships](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dating-someone-with-schizophrenia) - [Supporting Someone Else](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-help-someone-with-schizophrenia) - [Claiming Disability](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-schizophrenia-a-disability) - [Coping Tips](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-coping) - [Support Groups](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-support-groups) - [Expressed Emotion](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/expressed-emotion-schizophrenia) - [Art Therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-art) - [Management Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/living-with-schizophrenia) - ### Treatment Treatment #### Related Articles - [Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ect-for-schizophrenia) - [Abilify](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/abilify) - [Rexulti](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/rexulti) - [Injections](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-injection) - [Latuda](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/latuda) - [Caplyta](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-caplyta) - [Invega](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-invega) - [Cobenfy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-cobenfy) - [Atypical Antipsychotics](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/atypical-antipsychotics) - [Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cbt-for-schizophrenia) - [Fanapt](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-fanapt) - [Risperdal](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/risperdal-schizophrenia) - [Invega Sustenna](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-invega-sustenna) - [Lithium](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/lithium-for-schizophrenia) - [Lybalvi](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-lybalvi) - [Aristada](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/aristada) - [Combination Therapies](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/combination-therapies-for-schizophrenia) - [Therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-therapy) - [Treatment Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-medication-for-schizophrenia) - [Abilify](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-aripiprazole-tablet) - [Cobenfy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/breakthrough-in-schizophrenia-treatment) - [Invega Trinza](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-invega-trinza) - [Abilify Maintena](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-abilify-maintena) - [Abilify Asimtufii](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-abilify-asimtufii) - [Invega Hafyera](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-invega-hafyera) - ### Prognosis Prognosis #### Related Articles - [Work Life](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-people-with-schizophrenia-work) - [Does it Worsen With Age?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-schizophrenia-get-worse-with-age) - [Possible Cures](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-there-a-cure-for-schizophrenia) - [Outlook Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-life-expectancy) - ### Related Conditions Related Conditions #### Related Articles - [Drug-Induced](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drug-induced-schizophrenia) - [vs. Psychosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia) - [Relationship to ADHD](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314464) - [vs. Dissociative Identity Disorder](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dissociative-identity-disorder-and-schizophrenia) - [With Paranoia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/192621) - [Autism & Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-you-have-autism-and-schizophrenia-at-the-same-time) - [vs. Schizoaffective Disorder](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizoaffective-vs-schizophrenia) - [Link to Dementia?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-and-dementia) - [Alcohol-Induced Pyschosis Disorder](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-alcohol-induce-schizophrenia) - [vs. Delusional Disorder](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/delusional-disorder-vs-schizophrenia) - [vs. Drug-Induced Pyschosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drug-induced-psychosis-vs-schizophrenia) - [Link to Asperger's](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/aspergers-and-schizophrenia) - [With Depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-depression) - [Schizoaffective Disorder](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/190678) - [Schizophreniform Disorder](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophreniform) - [Link to Stress](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/link-between-stress-and-schizophrenia) - ### Stages Stages #### Related Articles - [Stages Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/stages-of-schizophrenia) - [Prodromal Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/prodromal-schizophrenia) - ### Symptoms Symptoms #### Related Articles - [Auditory Hallucinations](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/auditory-hallucinations) - [Hallucinations](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-hallucinations) - [Avolition](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/avolition-schizophrenia) - [Positive Symptoms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/positive-symptoms-of-schizophrenia) - [Delusions](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-delusions) - [Disorganized Thoughts](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/192361) - [Negative Symptoms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/negative-symptoms-of-schizophrenia) - [In Teens](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-in-teens) - [vs. Neurotypical Brain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-brain-vs-neurotypical-brain) - [Early Signs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/early-signs-of-schizophrenia) - [Abivalence](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ambivalence-schizophrenia) - [Flat Affect](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/flat-affect-schizophrenia) - [Clanging](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/clanging-schizophrenia) - [Early Signs in Children](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/early-signs-of-schizophrenia-in-children) - ### Types Types #### Related Articles - [Catatonic Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/192263) - [In Females](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-in-women) - [Undifferentiated Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/undifferentiated-schizophrenia) - [Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/treatment-resistant-schizophrenia) - [Borderline Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/borderline-schizophrenia) - [Acute Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/acute-schizophrenia) - [Simple Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/simple-schizophrenia) - [In Children](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/192104) - [High Functioning Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/high-functioning-schizophrenia) - [Types Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/192770) [Investigating Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/program/investigating-schizophrenia "Investigating Schizophrenia program landing page") Content created by Medical News Today and supported by advertising. [Learn more](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/ad-policy) # Psychosis vs. schizophrenia: How do they differ? ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Yalda-Safai-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Yalda Safai, MD, MPH]() — Written by [Jenna Fletcher]() — [Updated on May 6, 2025]() - [Psychosis vs. schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia#psychosis-vs-schizophrenia) - [Psychosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia#psychosis) - [Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia#schizophrenia) - [The connection](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia#the-connection) - [Psychosis treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia#psychosis-treatment) - [Schizophrenia treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia#schizophrenia-treatment) - [FAQ](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia#faq) - [Summary](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia#summary) Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that affects how a person behaves, thinks, and feels. Psychosis refers to a collection of symptoms that affect the mind and cause a loss of grasp on reality. Psychosis is a common symptom of schizophrenia. Doctors often diagnose schizophrenia between the ages of [16 and 30](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia) when a person experiences their first psychotic episode. This article reviews the differences between schizophrenia and psychosis, what each is, how they relate, and the treatment options for each. ## [How do psychosis and schizophrenia differ?]() ![Collage of black and white images of a female's side profile with her eyes closed and a male leaning against a wall looking away](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2023/05/Psychosis-schizophrenia-collage-1296x728-header-1024x575.jpg?w=1155&h=1528) [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Fpsychosis-vs-schizophrenia&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.medicalnewstoday.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2023%2F05%2FPsychosis-schizophrenia-collage-1296x728-header-1024x575.jpg&description=Psychosis%20vs.%20schizophrenia%3A%20Understanding%20the%20differences "Share on Pinterest") Design by MNT; Photography by Peathegee Inc/Getty Images Westend61/Getty Images Schizophrenia is a [mental health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/154543) condition that relates to changes in how a person behaves, thinks, and feels. Often a doctor [can diagnose](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia) the condition following a person’s first episode of psychosis. Psychosis is often a symptom of an underlying mental health condition, such as schizophrenia, severe [depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933), or [bipolar disorder](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/37010). The term refers to a collection of symptoms that affect the mind and can make it difficult for a person to determine what is real or not. While mental health conditions are often the cause of psychosis or psychotic episodes, they can appear on their own. In those cases, a person may experience symptoms due to alcohol or drug misuse, [sleep deprivation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/307334), or the use of certain prescription medications. Psychosis is more common than schizophrenia. The exact number of people living with psychosis is unclear, but some estimate that about [15 to 100 people out of 100,000](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/understanding-psychosis) develop psychosis each year in the United States. Comparatively, [less than 1%](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia) of the population of the U.S. has schizophrenia. ## [What is psychosis?]() Psychosis is a term doctors use to refer to several symptoms that affect the mind. A person with psychosis [will often experience](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/understanding-psychosis) disrupted thoughts and perceptions. This can make it difficult for them to determine what is and is not real. It typically starts in early adulthood, but older people may develop it due to conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease. Other common causes are mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia. **»Learn more:**[Your guide to understanding psychosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248159) ## [What is schizophrenia?]() Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that affects thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. A person with schizophrenia may appear to have lost touch with reality, which can distress family members and friends. The symptoms of schizophrenia can make it difficult for a person to participate in typical life activities, including school, work, and socializing. Experts typically break symptoms down into three main [categories](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia): - **Positive or psychotic symptoms:** May include hallucinations, such as seeing things that do not exist, paranoia, and exaggerated or distorted perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors. - **Negative symptoms:** Trouble speaking, initiating plans, speaking emotions, or finding pleasure in things. - **Disorganized symptoms:** May include confused and disordered thinking and speech, trouble with thinking logically, and bizarre behavior or abnormal movements. Several factors may increase a person’s risk of developing schizophrenia, including: - genetics - environment, such as life experiences and surroundings - changes in brain structure **»Learn more:**[What to know about schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/36942) ## [How are psychosis and schizophrenia related?]() Schizophrenia can cause psychosis to occur, but psychosis may happen due to other mental health conditions, medications, diseases such as [dementia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/142214), or misuse of alcohol or drugs. Experiencing a psychotic episode does not necessarily mean a person has schizophrenia. A doctor [will typically](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/understanding-psychosis) rule out other possible causes before making a diagnosis of schizophrenia or other mental health condition. In both cases, a person may not know they are experiencing the condition. They may feel overwhelmed or confused. ## [How is psychosis treated?]() Psychosis treatment often involves the use of antipsychotic medications and therapies. Antipsychotic medications can help to reduce the intensity and frequency of psychotic episodes, but they cannot treat the underlying condition. Examples include: - chlorpromazine (Thorazine) - haloperidol (Haldol) - clozapine (Clozaril) A multidisciplinary team [can often help](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/understanding-psychosis) improve a person’s outcome. A coordinated team can help to share treatment decisions and include the person and their family directly in the treatment. **»Learn more:**[What to know about antipsychotic medications](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-medication-for-psychosis) ## [How do doctors treat schizophrenia?]() Schizophrenia requires similar treatments to psychosis. A person [will often benefit](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia) from a multidisciplinary approach that includes supervised use of antipsychotic medications, psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavior therapy, and education for caregivers and family members. With proper treatment, a person with schizophrenia can live a full life, participating in work, school, and social gatherings. **»Learn more:**[MNT investigates: What are the antipsychotic drugs for schizophrenia?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/schizophrenia-second-generation-antipsychotics) ## [Frequently asked questions]() ### What are the three stages of psychosis? Experts [often break down](https://www.earlypsychosis.ca/phases-of-psychosis/) psychosis into three phases: The prodrome phase, the acute phase, and the recovery phase. The prodrome phase often involves the early signs of psychosis, such as changes in how a person thinks about themselves and changes in feelings and behaviors. It can vary between people and last several months to over a year. The acute phase happens when a person starts to have psychosis symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, and very odd or disorganized speech or behaviors. The final stage is the recovery stage, where treatment starts to help reduce the severity of symptoms. Many people can successfully reach this stage when they begin treatment. Experts [often break down](https://www.earlypsychosis.ca/phases-of-psychosis/) psychosis into three phases: The prodrome phase, the acute phase, and the recovery phase. The prodrome phase often involves the early signs of psychosis, such as changes in how a person thinks about themselves and changes in feelings and behaviors. It can vary between people and last several months to over a year. The acute phase happens when a person starts to have psychosis symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, and very odd or disorganized speech or behaviors. The final stage is the recovery stage, where treatment starts to help reduce the severity of symptoms. Many people can successfully reach this stage when they begin treatment. ### Does schizophrenia turn into psychosis? Psychosis is often a symptom of schizophrenia. Psychosis is not a mental health condition, but it is a set of symptoms that relate to several possible underlying causes, including schizophrenia. Psychosis is often a symptom of schizophrenia. Psychosis is not a mental health condition, but it is a set of symptoms that relate to several possible underlying causes, including schizophrenia. ### What triggers psychosis? Anyone can develop psychosis at some point in their life. Causes of psychosis include medications, mental health conditions, dementia, and drug or alcohol misuse. Anyone can develop psychosis at some point in their life. Causes of psychosis include medications, mental health conditions, dementia, and drug or alcohol misuse. ## [Summary]() Psychosis is a collection of symptoms that cause a person to lose touch with reality. It is often a symptom of schizophrenia, but other conditions can trigger psychosis to occur as well. Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that leads to changes in how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. A person will need similar treatments when either occurs. Treatments are often successful when a person adheres to them and typically involve a multidisciplinary approach. - [Mental Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/mental-health) - [Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/schizophrenia) - [Psychology / Psychiatry](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/psychology-psychiatry) ### How we reviewed this article: Sources Medical News Today 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.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process). - Phases of psychosis. (n.d.). <https://www.earlypsychosis.ca/phases-of-psychosis/> - Schizophrenia. (2024). <https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia> - Torres F. (2024). What is schizophrenia? <https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia> - Understanding psychosis. (n.d.). <https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/understanding-psychosis> Share this article ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Yalda-Safai-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105) Medically reviewed by [Yalda Safai, MD, MPH](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/reviewers/yalda-safai-md-mph) — Written by [Jenna Fletcher](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/authors/jenna-fletcher) — Updated on May 6, 2025 ## More in [Investigating Schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/program/investigating-schizophrenia) - [What to know about schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/36942) - [What to know about the stages of schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/stages-of-schizophrenia) - [What to know about the positive symptoms of schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/positive-symptoms-of-schizophrenia) - [What to know about treatment-resistant schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/treatment-resistant-schizophrenia) - [View all](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/program/investigating-schizophrenia) ### Related Coverage - [Your guide to helping someone with schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-help-someone-with-schizophrenia?utm_source=ReadNext) [Caring for someone with schizophrenia requires patience and understanding. Learn how to support someone with schizophrenia.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-help-someone-with-schizophrenia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-help-someone-with-schizophrenia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What to know about treatment-resistant schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/treatment-resistant-schizophrenia?utm_source=ReadNext) [Treatment-resistant schizophrenia is when a person takes two or more types of medication for schizophrenia but symptoms do not improve. Learn more.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/treatment-resistant-schizophrenia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/treatment-resistant-schizophrenia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What to know about the positive symptoms of schizophrenia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/positive-symptoms-of-schizophrenia?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Matthew Boland, PhD](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/reviewers) [Positive symptoms of schizophrenia include hallucinations, delusions, and changes in thoughts or behaviors. Learn more here.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/positive-symptoms-of-schizophrenia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/positive-symptoms-of-schizophrenia?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/additional-information). - [About Us](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about) - [Contact Us](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/contact-us) - [Terms of Use](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/terms-of-use) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/privacy-policy) - [Privacy Settings](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/privacy-settings) - [Advertising Policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/ad-policy) - [Health Topics](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/directory/a-b) - [Health Hubs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/content-hubs) - [Medical Affairs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/reviewers) - [Content Integrity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/content-integrity) - [Newsletters](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/newsletter) - © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/additional-information). © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/additional-information). [About](https://www.healthlinemedia.com/?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=about)[Careers](https://rvohealth.com/careers)[Advertise with us](https://www.healthlinemedia.com/advertise?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=advertise) OUR BRANDS [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/)[Medical News Today](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/)[Greatist](https://greatist.com/)[Psych Central](https://psychcentral.com/)[Bezzy](https://bezzy.com/) ![](http://b.scorecardresearch.com/p?c1=2&c2=38584006&cv=3.9&cj=1&comscorekw=main)
Readable Markdownnull
Shard110 (laksa)
Root Hash5853625527623639710
Unparsed URLcom,medicalnewstoday!www,/articles/psychosis-vs-schizophrenia s443