What is meant by 'psychosis'?

Psychosis refers to a mental condition characterized by a disconnection from reality. This disconnect can manifest in various ways, including hallucinations, where an individual perceives things that are not present, or delusions, which are firmly held false beliefs. Individuals experiencing psychosis may struggle to differentiate between what is real and what is not, potentially leading to significant impairment in their daily functioning.

Understanding this definition is crucial, as psychosis can occur in the context of various mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, severe depression, or bipolar disorder. Recognizing the signs of psychosis is an essential aspect of mental health training, as it informs clinicians about the need for immediate intervention and appropriate treatment strategies. The other classifications of mood disorders, personality disorders, or anxiety disorders do not accurately encapsulate the essence of what psychosis entails, thereby making the choice regarding disconnection from reality the most accurate representation of this mental health condition.