Psychosis represents a break from reality, which can include delusions or hallucinations. While psychotic episodes are characteristic of illnesses like schizophrenia, drug use can also cause psychosis. What are some symptoms of this condition, and what drugs might trigger it?
Psychosis Warning Signs
Usually, psychosis begins with small changes in thoughts and perception and gradually worsens if left untreated. Experiencing psychosis in adolescence can increase the likelihood of receiving a schizophrenia diagnosis as an adult.
You might notice symptoms like these in your teen:
- Difficulty concentrating or decision-making
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Experiencing more or fewer emotions than a situation calls for
- Neglecting self-care
- Hearing, seeing or feeling things that aren’t there
- Having unusual, irrational beliefs or intrusive thoughts
- Being secretive or distrustful around people
- Imparting significant meaning to seemingly minor events
What Is Drug-Induced Psychosis?
While drug abuse can worsen the symptoms of existing mental health disorders like bipolar and schizophrenia, any substance that alters brain chemistry can also trigger psychotic episodes.
Drug-induced psychosis can result from combining various substances, taking dangerously high doses or as a withdrawal symptom. It usually only lasts until the substance has fully cleared the brain and body, which means symptom severity can increase in tandem with heavier doses.
What Drugs Can Cause Psychosis?
Many substances can cause people to lose touch with reality, including the following.
Inhalants
Common household chemicals like cleaning products, spray paint, glue and propellants are readily available, and the fumes they emit are often the first drugs teens and young adults experiment with. Inhalants may be attractive to teens because they are inexpensive and create a nearly immediate high. Their side effects are especially dangerous in young people whose brains are still developing.
Prescription Medications
Prescription drugs that may cause psychosis include antidepressants and muscle relaxers. If your son takes these medications as prescribed and experiences any psychosis symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. They can advise you whether your teen should stop using his medication and prescribe an alternative that may have less risky side effects.
Illegal Drugs
Illicit substances associated with drug-induced psychosis are cocaine and meth. These drugs tend to produce persecutory delusions, which may give rise to irrational beliefs about being chased or watched. Some research also suggests a link between marijuana and psychosis, particularly with the high-THC products that are so prevalent today.
Alcohol
Alcohol is another drug that can lead to psychosis-like symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. The severe withdrawal phenomenon known as delirium tremens may have these side effects.
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