If you’ve ever wondered how to help someone with psychosis, you’re not alone. Supporting a loved one through something as complex as psychosis can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of what it is or what to do. You might feel confused, helpless, or even frightened at times—and that’s completely normal. The good news is that there are ways to make a difference. Whether you’re a friend, family member, or caregiver, your role can be both meaningful and impactful.
Laguna Shores offers clarity, compassion, and concrete steps to take when navigating this challenging experience, helping you feel more confident and connected in your support.
What is Psychosis?
Psychosis is a serious mental health condition that affects the way a person perceives and interprets reality. During a psychotic episode, an individual may experience hallucinations—such as hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t there—or delusions, which are firmly held beliefs that don’t align with reality. Their thoughts may become jumbled or difficult to follow, and they may appear disconnected from their surroundings. These experiences can be deeply distressing and confusing, both for the person going through them and for those who care about them.
Psychosis is Not a Disease—It’s a Syndrome
It’s important to understand that psychosis is not a disease in and of itself. Instead, it is a syndrome—a cluster of symptoms that can show up across a range of different mental health conditions. In other words, psychosis is a feature of various disorders, not a diagnosis on its own. It can occur as part of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression, or even in response to trauma, substance use, or extreme stress. In some cases, psychosis may be a single, isolated episode, while in others, it can be a recurring part of a longer-term mental health challenge. Recognizing psychosis as a syndrome allows for a more flexible, compassionate approach to understanding its causes and tailoring treatment to the individual.
How Do I Recognize if Someone Is in Psychosis?
Knowing the signs can help you step in early and potentially prevent a crisis. Some common symptoms of psychosis include:
- Talking to themselves or responding to things that aren’t there
- Intense paranoia or irrational fears
- Rapid or nonsensical speech
- Social withdrawal or extreme emotional flatness
- Sudden changes in behavior or hygiene
- Trouble concentrating or following a conversation
- Unusual or bizarre beliefs that don’t align with reality
- Inappropriate emotional reactions (e.g., laughing at sad news or showing no emotion at all)
- Strong distrust or suspicion of others
However, if someone becomes aggressive, appears suicidal, or is so disconnected from reality that they pose a risk to themselves or others, call emergency services right away. Psychotic episodes can escalate quickly, so it’s also important to be prepared if the situation becomes more serious.
What Can Trigger a Psychotic Episode?
A psychotic episode can be triggered by various factors, often differing from person to person. Common triggers include:
- Mental health conditions: Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression
- Substance use: Alcohol abuse, cannabis, hallucinogens, and stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamine
- Extreme stress or trauma: Intense emotional events, such as a death, abuse, or a major life change
- Lack of sleep: Severe sleep deprivation can lead to hallucinations and delusional thinking.
- Medical conditions: Brain injuries, infections affecting the brain (like encephalitis), or neurological disorders (such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s)
- Genetics and family history: Having a close relative with a psychotic disorder may increase risk, especially when combined with environmental stressors.
Triggers don’t always cause immediate symptoms, and sometimes multiple factors interact to produce symptoms. Recognizing early warning signs can help you seek timely support.
How Can I Communicate With Someone Experiencing Psychosis?
When someone is experiencing psychosis, communication can be difficult, but it’s also one of the most important ways you can support them. The way you speak and listen can either build trust or increase fear and confusion.
Maintain a steady tone and non-threatening body language. Avoid shouting, sudden movements, or reacting emotionally—even if what they’re saying feels alarming or irrational.
Instead of challenging their version of reality, validate how they feel. Phrases like “That sounds upsetting,” or “It must be scary to feel that way,” show empathy without reinforcing false beliefs.
This helps them feel heard and respected. Try, “Can you tell me more about what you’re feeling?” rather than, “Why are you saying that?”
People with psychosis may need time to process what’s happening. Stay close, offer calm support, and be there when they’re ready.
Treatment for Psychosis
Effective treatment for psychosis typically involves a combination of medical, psychological, and social support approaches. Because psychosis can look different from person to person, treatment plans are often tailored to the individual’s specific needs.
Antipsychotic medications are commonly prescribed to reduce or manage symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Finding the right medication and dosage can take time. In our MAT program, our team collaborates closely with a healthcare provider to monitor side effects and assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals understand and manage their thoughts, improve coping skills, and reduce distress associated with psychosis. Therapy can also address any underlying or co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression.
In severe crises, a short-term hospital stay may be necessary to ensure the person’s safety and provide intensive treatment. Hospitalization can help stabilize symptoms and allow for structured support in a safe environment.
In addition to these core treatments, support from family, peer groups, and community services plays a crucial role in recovery. The earlier the treatment begins, the better the long-term outcomes will be. Early intervention can reduce the severity and frequency of future episodes, supporting a more stable and fulfilling life.
How to Help Someone With Psychosis
With the right care and understanding, you can make a meaningful difference during a psychotic episode—your support is essential to their recovery and well-being.
Understanding what psychosis is, and what it isn’t, can help you respond with empathy rather than fear or frustration. Learn about their specific condition, symptoms, and treatment options so you can offer informed and compassionate support.
People with psychosis may struggle to follow treatment plans. Offer gentle reminders about medications and appointments. If they’re open to it, accompany them to provide support and help process information afterward.
Stress can trigger or worsen psychotic symptoms. Try to maintain a calm and predictable routine, minimizing chaos and conflict at home. Respect their need for quiet or space, and avoid overstimulating situations when possible.
Support them in maintaining regular sleep, balanced nutrition, and some form of physical activity. These habits promote brain health and can help stabilize mood and thinking. Even small, consistent efforts, such as going for a short walk together, can make a significant difference.
Recovery from psychosis is not always linear. There may be ups and downs, including relapses or setbacks. Avoid pressuring them to “snap out of it” or meet unrealistic expectations. Celebrate small victories and remind them that healing takes time.
It’s important to be there without being overbearing. Let them set the pace for conversation and connection. Just knowing someone cares and is nearby can be incredibly reassuring.
The Impact of Supporting a Loved One With Psychosis
Supporting someone through psychosis is an act of deep compassion—but it’s also incredibly challenging. Being a caregiver or a close supporter can take a toll on your emotional and physical well-being, especially if you’re constantly putting someone else’s needs ahead of your own. That’s why your self-care matters just as much. Know that what you’re doing matters deeply, even on the days that feel the hardest. And remember—you don’t have to do this alone.
Practical Tips for Your Role as a Supporter
Here are some ways to stay grounded and supported as you care for someone with psychosis:
- Set healthy boundaries to avoid burnout
- Join a support group for caregivers
- Learn crisis management skills
- Keep emergency contacts and resources handy
- Celebrate small wins in the recovery journey
Heal and Recover With the Support You Deserve
Whether you’re experiencing psychosis or standing by someone who is, healing is possible—with the right help. Learning how to help someone through psychosis gives you the tools to respond with clarity and compassion. And while the road may be long, you don’t have to walk it alone.
Laguna Shores Recovery is here to support you or your loved one through psychosis and other mental health challenges. Through evidence-based care, empathy, and a holistic approach, we stand by you on your journey to healing. Reach out to us today!
Matthew Beck B.A, M.A, LMFT 
