Understanding Minds That Wander: The Truth About Psychosis by Dr Waheed
Olajide Lawal
Psychosis is often misunderstood. Many people think it means someone has gone “crazy” or is dangerous These ideas are not only wrong they hurt people who are struggling and need support Psychosis is not something to fear It’s a medical condition that can be treated, just like many other health problems.
As explained by Dr Waheed Olajide Lawal, when someone has psychosis, they may see, hear, or believe things that aren’t real These are called hallucinations and delusions For example, a person might listen to voices that others don’t hear, or they might believe someone is watching them when they are not. These experiences can feel very real to the person going through them, even though they are not based on reality
Psychosis is not a condition on its own. It’s a symptom that can be part of other mental health issues like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression It can also be caused by drug use, stress, lack of sleep, or even physical illness Anyone can experience psychosis, regardless of age, background, or lifestyle.
One of the most important things to know is that people with psychosis are not usually violent. Most of the time, they are confused, scared, or overwhelmed The media often gets this wrong, which adds to the fear and shame around psychosis
Early help makes a big difference. Signs of psychosis can include withdrawing from friends and family, thinking unclearly, feeling suspicious, or seeming unusually excited or afraid If someone exhibits these signs, it’s essential to reach out and encourage them to consult a doctor or mental health professional.
Treatment for psychosis usually involves a mix of medication and therapy. Medicine helps with symptoms, and treatment allows the person to understand what’s happening and learn how to cope Support from loved ones also plays a significant role in recovery
People can and do recover from psychosis With proper treatment and care, many individuals go on to lead healthy, fulfilling lives It might take time and effort, but recovery is always possible.
We all need to be more open and kind when talking about mental health. Psychosis doesn’t make someone “less” than others it simply means they’re going through something challenging With understanding and support, we can help break the stigma and build a more compassionate world.