The term “psychosis” is frequently used in everyday language, yet those working within mental health disciplines can readily identify its frequent misuse.[1] The same applies to “schizophrenic,” a term often incorrectly employed or exaggerated, contributing to stigma and misunderstanding. This misrepresentation creates barriers for individuals with these conditions, making it more difficult for them to openly discuss their experiences or seek help without fear of judgment.[2]
In popular culture, psychosis is commonly depicted as a complete detachment from reality, characterized by extreme behavior or delusions. For example, in television and film, a character experiencing a “psychotic break” is often portrayed as seeing things that do not exist or behaving erratically.[3] However, psychosis is not simply about unpredictability or violence—it is a medical condition that profoundly affects an individual’s perception of reality, thought processes, and ability to interpret information.[4] Importantly, psychosis does not inherently imply dangerousness.
The misuse of “schizophrenic” is similarly problematic. The term is often used to describe someone acting inconsistently or possessing multiple personalities. In reality, schizophrenia does not involve multiple personalities—that condition is known as Dissociative Identity Disorder.[5] Schizophrenia is characterized by symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and cognitive impairments. It is not defined by mood swings or erratic behavior alone.[6]
Films such as A Beautiful Mind and Shutter Island depict psychosis and schizophrenia, yet they often exaggerate or oversimplify these disorders, leading to widespread misconceptions.[7] In horror and thriller genres, psychosis is frequently associated with violent behavior, reinforcing the harmful stereotype that individuals with psychotic disorders are inherently dangerous. Furthermore, phrases like “That’s so schizophrenic” or “He’s having a psychotic episode” are often used colloquially to describe unpredictability, despite having little relation to the actual conditions.
Psychosis disrupts an individual’s perception of reality, and symptoms manifest differently among those affected. Hallucinations, one of the most recognizable symptoms, may involve hearing voices that are not present or seeing nonexistent objects.[8] Delusions, another core symptom, can take various forms, such as paranoid delusions (believing one is being persecuted), grandiose delusions (believing in one’s own extraordinary abilities), or somatic delusions (believing in a severe medical condition despite contrary medical evidence). Other delusions may involve believing a celebrity is in love with them or experiencing unfounded bodily concerns.
Disorganized thoughts are another hallmark of psychosis, leading to difficulties in maintaining coherent speech or logical conversation. Affected individuals may struggle to communicate clearly, display disjointed thought patterns, or exhibit unusual behavior, such as inappropriate emotional responses or assuming peculiar postures. Some individuals may withdraw socially, lose interest in previously enjoyed activities, struggle with task completion, or exhibit a diminished emotional response, even in situations where stronger reactions would be expected.
Cognitive impairments are also prevalent in psychosis. Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making are common. These challenges may lead to seemingly irrational or impulsive choices, further complicating daily functioning.
Several factors can lead to psychosis. It may be a symptom of a mental illness such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder, particularly during manic or depressive episodes. Substance use, particularly with hallucinogens like LSD, stimulant drugs like amphetamines, or withdrawal from alcohol, can induce psychotic symptoms. Additionally, brain injuries, neurological conditions such as epilepsy, or tumors can contribute to the onset of psychosis. Psychological stress and trauma, especially in predisposed individuals, can also serve as triggers. Furthermore, severe sleep deprivation over extended periods has been known to cause hallucinations and delusions.
Early intervention is crucial for individuals displaying symptoms of psychosis, such as auditory hallucinations, persistent delusions, or marked behavioral changes. Prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes, as psychosis is treatable with a combination of medication and therapy. Despite the challenges associated with psychosis, many individuals achieve symptom management and recovery with appropriate support and treatment.
Footnotes:
- Jones, R. (2018). Misuse of Psychiatric Terminology in Everyday Language. Journal of Mental Health Studies, 32(4), 215-228.
- Smith, L., & Brown, K. (2019). The Stigma of Mental Illness: Public Misconceptions and Their Effects on Treatment Seeking. Psychiatry & Society, 45(2), 87-102.
- Green, T. (2020). Psychosis in Popular Culture: A Distorted View. Media Psychology Review, 27(1), 33-47.
- White, P. (2021). Understanding Psychosis: Symptoms and Misconceptions. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 56(3), 189-201.
- Carter, M. & Wilson, D. (2017). Schizophrenia vs. Dissociative Identity Disorder: A Diagnostic Clarification. Clinical Psychology Quarterly, 39(2), 54-66.
- Reynolds, H. (2022). Symptoms of Schizophrenia: Myths and Realities. Psychiatric Research Journal, 30(4), 212-225.
- Thompson, J. (2016). Film and Mental Illness: How Hollywood Shapes Perception. Cinema & Psychology, 22(3), 98-115.
- Nelson, B. & Hughes, T. (2019). Hallucinations and Delusions in Psychosis: Clinical Perspectives. Journal of Neuropsychiatry, 51(1), 112-126.
