Fighting continues in Ukraine due to Russian military intervention. The war also affects the psyche of Ukrainians. Psychosis is one of the mental disorders that can be treated by a family doctor. Specialists of the National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU) told how to recognize the symptoms of psychosis and where to go for help.

How to recognize the symptoms of psychosis.

This disease is characterized by disturbances in thinking and perception, as well as in emotions and behavior.. Abandonment of normal duties related to work, school, household or social affairs, agitated aggressive behavior, increase or decrease in activity may be signs of psychosis.

The symptoms associated with this disorder are treatable and the person can make a full recovery..

A person with psychosis may hear voices or see images that are not there.. Also, they don't understand their own mental health issues..

The following symptoms of psychosis may also appear:.

delusions - persistent erroneous beliefs;

significant behavioral disturbances - chaotic, agitated, passive or hyperactive;

emotional disturbance – marked apathy or lack of connection between the emotion the person is talking about and the emotional response.

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Where to go for help.

A person needs to come to a consultation with a primary care doctor, who will determine the presence of a disorder. Patients may be prescribed antipsychotics to treat psychosis.

It is important to take them as directed and regularly come for follow-up consultations.. However, another key aspect of patient management is support in daily activities, regular follow-up and community rehabilitation..

Relapses or worsening of symptoms are common, so it is important to recognize them early and see a doctor as soon as possible.. Stress, sleep deprivation, alcohol and psychoactive substances can exacerbate psychotic symptoms.

In addition to therapy, the doctor will also advise the patient on a healthy lifestyle: a balanced diet, physical activity, regular sleep, personal hygiene..

A person will be positively affected by the resumption of social activities in which he was previously engaged.. This will provide psychological and social support.. We are talking about meeting family members, going out with friends, visiting neighbors, social activities at work, playing sports, activities in the community..

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It is important for a person with symptoms of psychosis to continue their usual social, educational, professional activities as much as possible. The doctor may suggest that patients with psychosis, their families and caregivers receive life or social skills training..

People with psychosis are at higher risk of being affected by stigma, discrimination and violations of their right to a decent life. Therefore, avoid constant criticism of a person or a hostile attitude towards him..

If there is a clinical need, the family doctor will refer the person with psychosis to a psychiatrist.. After stabilization of the patient's condition, he can continue to be observed by a primary care doctor..

To find a medical institution for receiving psychological assistance, you can contact the NSZU contact center at 16-77. You can also use the dashboard for concluded agreements on the NSZU website. In the group of services field, select the package "

Earlier we wrote where IDPs can get free psychological help.

Important! This publication is based on the latest and current scientific research in the field of medicine and is for general information purposes only.. Publication cannot be the basis for establishing any diagnoses. If you are ill or need a diagnosis, see your doctor!