Children often go through phases of withdrawing from their parents and siblings, flitting from one friend group to another, or shifting their interests every few weeks or months. These phases are normal and healthy, but if their personalities and behaviors really begin to change, it may be cause for worry.
Psychosis can cause a loss of interest in things that once excited or pleased a person, and it can cause one’s personality to change completely. A star student may turn into someone who brings home D’s and F’s on report cards; a social butterfly may become abnormally quiet, reserved, and distant. Psychosis can also cause confusion, a loss of motivation, and a lack of facial expression or emotional reaction. A person experiencing psychosis might also jumble their words or speak about things that are completely illogical or irrational. Difficulty sleeping or, conversely, sleeping too much can also be warning signs of psychosis.
Some of the more concerning symptoms of psychosis that usually develop later include hallucinations, or seeing and hearing things that are not really there, and delusions, or believing things that are not really true. For example, hallucinations can include hearing voices, and delusions might include believing someone or something can read your thoughts. Hallucinations and delusions can lead to paranoia and fear in those who have psychosis.
Typically, symptoms of psychosis begin around ages 12 to 16, but a very small percentage of children under the age of 12 present with symptoms of psychosis.
Psychosis is a mental condition in and of itself, but it can also be a symptom of an overarching mental health issue. A doctor will help you determine whether your psychosis is a standalone disorder, or whether it is being caused by a different mental health condition, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
If you believe that you or a loved one might be experiencing psychosis, seek medical attention as soon as possible. The earlier psychosis is detected, the better it can be treated.