Psychosis

Understanding Psychosis

Psychosis is a term used to describe experiences where a person loses touch with reality in ways that feel confusing, frightening, or disorienting. During an episode of psychosis, someone may see, hear, or believe things that others do not. These experiences are real and meaningful to the person having them, even if they don’t match what’s happening around them.

Psychosis can be short-term or long-lasting. It may arise suddenly or gradually. And while it is often misunderstood, psychosis is treatable—with the right support, people can stabilize, recover, and lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.

What Psychosis Can Feel Like

Psychosis affects each person differently, but some common experiences include:

Hearing voices or sounds others cannot hear
Seeing things that others do not
Strong, fixed beliefs that may not align with reality
Feeling watched, followed, or singled out
Disorganized or confusing thoughts
Difficulty speaking clearly or staying focused
Withdrawing from relationships or activities
Changes in mood, energy, or behaviour

These symptoms are not a sign of weakness and do not reflect someone’s character. They are signs that the brain is under significant stress.

Causes of Psychosis

Psychosis can arise from many different factors. It is often a response to something overwhelming in the brain or body.

Common contributors include:

Genetic or biological vulnerability
Trauma, especially during early development
Substance use, including cannabis, stimulants, and hallucinogens
Severe stress or burnout
Medical conditions affecting the brain
Sleep deprivation

Sometimes the cause is clear. Other times, it’s a combination of factors or remains unknown. Regardless of the cause, supportive treatment can make a significant difference.

Treatment and Support for Psychosis

Recovering from psychosis is possible. A combination of therapy, medication, education, and lifestyle support can help individuals regain stability and reduce the likelihood of future episodes.

Early Intervention

Early treatment is essential. When psychosis is recognized and supported quickly, outcomes often improve. Early intervention helps with:

Reducing symptom severity
Improving long-term stability
Supporting families and caregivers
Encouraging healthy coping strategies
Building confidence and independence

If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of psychosis, reaching out early can be a crucial first step.

Medication Support

Medications—often antipsychotics—can be very helpful in managing symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking. Medication choices are made collaboratively, considering each person’s needs, comfort, and goals.

Medication is most effective when paired with supportive therapy and lifestyle adjustments.

Therapeutic Approaches

Therapy provides a space to process experiences, learn coping tools, and build resilience.

Approaches may include:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp)
Helps individuals reframe beliefs, manage symptoms, and reduce distress
Supportive counselling
A safe space for grounding, stabilization, and emotional processing
Trauma-informed therapy
Recognizes the role of past experiences and aims to create safety
Family or couples therapy
Helps loved ones understand symptoms, communicate effectively, and support recovery

Therapy is paced according to readiness and safety. It’s never rushed.

Holistic and Lifestyle Support

Stability often improves when emotional, physical, and practical needs are addressed together. Support may include:

Sleep hygiene
Reducing substance use
Building structure and routine
Skill-building for stress management
Social support and connection
Nutrition and physical health

These foundations make treatment more effective and support lasting recovery.

What Recovery Can Look Like

Recovery is absolutely possible. Many people:

Regain clarity and stability
Reconnect with relationships and community
Learn how to manage stress and triggers
Build confidence and self-awareness
Return to work, school, or meaningful activities
Experience fewer or less intense episodes

Healing takes time and patience, but it is achievable.

Ready To Take The Next Step?

We take a compassionate, grounded, evidence-informed approach to supporting people experiencing psychosis. Whether you are newly experiencing symptoms or navigating a chronic condition, we offer a non-judgmental space where you can feel safe, understood, and supported.

You deserve care that honours your humanity and your potential for recovery.

If you’d like to learn more, or explore whether our counsellors iare right for you, please reach out:

Phone: (778)715-0112

Email: info@willowbarkwellness.com

Or book a complimentary 15 minute consultation with any of our counsellors to see if they’re the right fit for you.