Key Takeaways
- Certain drugs and substances can cause psychotic episodes, bringing about severe symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia.
- Common substances known to trigger substance-induced psychosis include stimulants like methamphetamine and hallucinogens like LSD and alcohol.
- Professional treatment can help manage the effects of psychosis brought on by drug use, supporting a path to recovery.
Introduction
Substance-induced psychosis can be a frightening experience. Psychosis triggered by certain drugs or the effects of substance abuse may involve severe confusion, hallucinations, and even paranoia. People who experience this condition may find themselves detached from reality, sometimes unable to distinguish between what is real and what is imagined. For those who are struggling with addiction, recognizing the risks of substance-induced psychosis is essential.
Substance-induced psychosis doesn’t only affect the person experiencing it—it also impacts loved ones, often causing worry and fear. In this article, we’ll discuss which drugs most commonly cause psychotic symptoms and the importance of seeking treatment.
What Is Substance-Induced Psychosis?
Substance-induced psychosis is a form of psychosis triggered by drug use or, in some cases, withdrawal from certain substances. Psychotic episodes caused by substance abuse differ from other types of psychosis, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. While substance-induced psychosis arises directly due to the presence of a substance, other psychotic disorders occur independently of drug use.
Individuals experiencing this kind of psychosis may go through episodes of hallucinations—seeing, hearing, or even feeling things that aren’t there. Delusions, or false beliefs, are also common. For example, a person may believe that others are out to harm them or that they have extraordinary abilities. These symptoms can be overwhelming and may lead to dangerous situations or lasting impacts on mental health.
The duration of these episodes can vary. Sometimes, symptoms may fade once the substance leaves the body, but in other cases, they may persist. Without proper support and addiction treatment, substance-induced psychosis can recur, especially if drug use continues.
Common Drugs That Cause Substance-Induced Psychosis
Certain drugs are well-known for triggering psychotic symptoms, either during use or as a result of withdrawal. Let’s look at some of the most common substances associated with this condition.
Methamphetamine and Cocaine: These stimulant drugs can have a powerful effect on the brain. Methamphetamine (meth) and cocaine increase dopamine levels, which can create feelings of euphoria but also lead to paranoia and hallucinations, mainly when used in large quantities. For some, stimulant drugs can cause intense episodes of psychosis that involve fear, anxiety, and severe confusion. Regular use can lead to chronic mental health issues, including lasting psychotic symptoms.
LSD and Other Hallucinogens: Hallucinogens, such as LSD, magic mushrooms, and PCP, affect the brain by altering perception. These substances can cause a person to see, hear, or even feel things that aren’t there, leading to a break from reality. These hallucinations may seem intriguing to some, but they can also be disturbing and even dangerous. People experiencing a psychotic episode from LSD may act erratically or take risks that they would typically avoid.
Prescription Medications: Certain prescription drugs, particularly when misused, can also trigger psychosis. For example, benzodiazepines, if taken in high doses or during withdrawal, may cause hallucinations, agitation, and delusions. Similarly, steroids can lead to mood swings, aggression, and psychotic episodes when taken over long periods. Misuse of prescription medications, even those not typically associated with psychosis, increases the risk of experiencing these symptoms.
Alcohol and Alcohol Withdrawal: Alcohol, when used heavily over time, can lead to psychotic symptoms during withdrawal. For instance, delirium tremens (DTs) is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that includes confusion, hallucinations, and sometimes seizures. Alcohol withdrawal psychosis may be especially dangerous if left untreated, leading to harmful or even fatal consequences.
Each of these drugs can potentially cause lasting effects on mental health. Substance use doesn’t only risk short-term episodes of psychosis; it also raises the likelihood of developing other mental health disorders over time. Understanding which drugs can trigger these effects may be the first step toward making safer choices and avoiding serious consequences.
Recognizing Symptoms of Drug-Induced Psychosis
Substance-induced psychotic disorder manifests with intense symptoms that may be alarming for both the individual and those around them. Some of the most common signs include hallucinations and delusions. These symptoms make it challenging to separate reality from imagination, often confusing and sometimes aggressive reactions.
Another common symptom of drug-induced psychosis is severe paranoia. People going through this type of psychosis may believe that others are trying to harm them or that they are in some form of danger. This paranoia can heighten feelings of fear, leading to behaviors that are unusual and potentially risky.
People with drug-induced psychosis often experience extreme mood swings, shifting rapidly from one emotional state to another. This agitation and irritability can be unpredictable, sometimes resulting in actions that put the individual or others in harm’s way. Recognizing these symptoms early can help family members or friends seek treatment before the situation escalates.
Treatment Options for Substance-Induced Psychosis
While experiencing substance-induced psychosis may be frightening, effective treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of recurrence.
One of the first steps in treating psychosis caused by drug use is detox, which should always be done under medical supervision. Detoxing safely is essential, especially since withdrawal can be intense and may cause a spike in psychotic symptoms. Medical professionals can monitor the person’s progress and offer medications to ease withdrawal symptoms, ensuring a safer transition away from substance use.
After detox, therapy plays a vital role in recovery. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help address the thoughts and behaviors that may have contributed to substance use. CBT can also provide coping strategies to manage cravings and prevent relapse. For some, dual diagnosis treatment may be necessary to address both addiction and any underlying mental health conditions that contribute to substance use.
Ongoing support is essential for maintaining recovery. Many people benefit from long-term treatment options, such as outpatient counseling or support groups, which provide a sense of community and encouragement. Family involvement can also offer additional support, helping create a safe and understanding environment at home.
Substance-induced psychosis is a severe condition, but recovery is possible with the right support system in place. By addressing both the symptoms of psychosis and the underlying causes of drug addiction, individuals can work toward a healthier, more stable life.
Conclusion
Substance-induced psychosis is a severe mental health condition triggered by certain drugs. Common substances like methamphetamine, cocaine, LSD, and even alcohol can lead to episodes of confusion, hallucinations, and severe paranoia. These symptoms can be frightening, but with proper treatment—including detox, therapy, and ongoing support—people affected by drug-induced psychosis can find a path to recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of drug-induced psychosis, help is available. Contact Virtue Recovery Houston at 866-457-4811 to learn more about treatment options and support.
FAQs About Substance Abuse Psychotic Disorder
What is substance-induced psychosis?
Substance-induced psychosis is a mental health condition caused by drug or alcohol use, which can lead to hallucinations, delusions, and severe confusion.
What drugs can cause psychosis?
Drugs like methamphetamine, cocaine, LSD, certain prescription medications, and alcohol, especially during withdrawal, can cause psychotic episodes.
Can psychosis from drug use be treated?
Yes, with medical detox, therapy, and long-term support, psychosis caused by drug use can be treated, and recovery is possible.
What are the symptoms of drug-induced psychosis?
Common symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, confusion, and extreme mood swings, which can vary depending on the substance used.
How can I support someone experiencing drug-induced psychosis?
Encourage them to seek professional help, such as a medical detox or counseling, and provide a supportive, understanding environment.
What’s another way of saying co-occurring disorder?
Another term for “co-occurring disorder” is “dual diagnosis.” This refers to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder simultaneously.
What are the signs and symptoms of psychosis?
Psychosis symptoms can include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and extreme mood swings. Individuals may also experience paranoia, difficulty focusing, and impaired reality perception.
What causes drug-induced psychosis?
Substances like methamphetamine, cocaine, alcohol, cannabis, and hallucinogens can cause drug-induced psychosis. These substances can disrupt brain chemistry, leading to temporary or prolonged psychotic symptoms, especially at high doses or with prolonged use.
Do I need addiction treatment or psychosis treatment for substance-induced psychosis?
Treatment for substance-induced psychosis often requires both addiction and psychosis treatment. Addressing addiction reduces the risk of future psychotic episodes, while psychiatric care helps manage acute symptoms and prevent further complications.
Should I be admitted into an addiction rehab treatment center if experiencing psychosis during drug withdrawal?
Yes, if psychosis occurs during drug withdrawal, admission to an addiction rehab or medical detox center is often recommended. These facilities provide a controlled environment with medical support to manage withdrawal symptoms, including psychosis safely.
Resources
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/psychosis/causes/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5326711/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/substancemedication-induced-psychotic-disorder
- About the Author
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Gigi Price holds licenses as a Master Social Worker and Clinical Drug Counselor. She completed her master’s degree in Social Work at Texas State University. Over the last decade, Gigi has been dedicated to utilizing evidence-based practices to enhance patient care and treatment planning, resulting in positive, long-term outcomes for patients and their families. Her passion lies in creating a treatment environment where professionals collaborate to bring about positive change and provide a safe, trustworthy therapeutic experience. Patients can be confident in receiving top-quality care under her leadership.
In her role as the Clinical Director of Virtue Recovery Houston, Gigi conducted research to identify the most effective approaches for treating patients with acute mental health diagnoses, PTSD, and Substance Use Disorder. She then assembled a team of skilled clinicians who could offer various therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
(DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Exposure, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Gigi takes pride in overseeing the development and implementation of Virtue Houston’s Treatment Program, which includes two specialized therapeutic curricula tailored to the unique needs of individuals struggling with mental health issues, addiction, and PTSD.
