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Psychosis


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Psychosis

Definition:

Psychosis is a loss of contact with reality, typically including delusions (false ideas about what is taking place or who one is) and hallucinations (seeing or hearing things which aren't there).


Alternative Names:
Psychotic
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Psychosis is a severe mental condition characterized by a loss of contact with reality. There are numerous potential causes:

  • alcohol and certain drugs can induce psychosis
  • bipolar disorder (manic depression)
  • brain tumors
  • epilepsy
  • psychotic depression
  • schizophrenia
  • dementia (Alzheimer's and other degenerative brain disorders)
  • stroke
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