Sausalito, CA – Alta Mira is a local rehab that recently published an article identifying multidisciplinary methods of treating drug-induced psychosis. They are well-versed experts in the addiction field and offer many different approaches to care.
“Cannabis use has surged in recent years, as many states have legalized recreational purchases. This is controversial, as cannabis is now much more potent than its street forms in the 70s and 80s. Cannabis has been linked to psychotic episodes due to intoxication or cannabis-induced psychotic disorder. Those who have negative environmental factors such as experiencing ACEs during childhood are more likely to experience psychosis from frequent cannabis use.
Stimulants, including methamphetamines and cocaine, have also been known to cause psychosis – primarily hallucinations and delusions. One study highlighted amphetamine or cocaine-induced psychotic disorder using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Though the predominance was in positive symptoms, negative PANSS scores were significant at 26%. Of those, 95% experienced bizarre delusions and 63% experienced Schneiderian hallucinations,” the article states.
Psychosis involves altered perceptions of reality, including hallucinations, delusions, and erratic emotions. A psychotic episode has three phases: prodrome (subtle, often unnoticed changes in thoughts and perceptions), acute (onset of hallucinations, delusions, and distressing behavior changes), and recovery (gradual return to normal function, though some symptoms may persist).
Experiencing psychosis is not the same as having a psychotic disorder. Psychosis is often a transient event that may occur only once in an individual’s lifetime. These events can be caused by stress, substance use, or other external factors. Following the first psychotic episode, early intervention becomes critical. Determining whether the episode was drug-related or had an underlying medical cause requires a professional assessment. A proper treatment plan cannot be assembled until the episode causes are correctly identified.
“It can be difficult to identify the difference between the two situations of substance-induced psychosis and psychotic disorders leading to substance use. This is where it is important to have an accurate and up-to-date medical history, including imaging of the brain and body, as well as blood tests, to rule out underlying conditions. The longer the psychosis is experienced, the more likely it is caused by something other than just substance use. Some substances such as methamphetamines can cause long-term psychosis but for the most part, drug-induced psychosis is short-lived.
The physical evaluations are just as crucial in determining psychosis causes. This is because a singular psychotic event can be caused by certain medical conditions. For example, someone who is diabetic can have a psychotic event due to hyperglycemia. This does not mean they have a psychotic disorder or even that they took substances. Again here, we see the value of a multidisciplinary approach. If a clinical team were to not include medical assessments, they could potentially misidentify the cause of the psychosis,” the article continues.
When someone first comes in for treatment during a psychotic episode, stabilization is the first step. This is done by giving antipsychotic medications and constant observation within the first 24-hour period. Once stabilized, a full medical history can be taken and is needed for deciding the next steps. It can then be determined if a medical detox from substances is needed or if they are showing signs of a psychotic disorder.
Neurological testing is often the next step. Besides brain imaging, neurological testing involves assessing mental functioning. Comprehension, concentration, memory, executive functions, motor skills, and informational processing are measured to understand the level of brain functions. MRI scans look through the brain, but microscopic damage is sometimes missed by these scans. MRIs also do not show psychotic disorders, which is why neurological testing is a necessity.
Alta Mira combines evidence-based practices with holistic approaches for comprehensive substance use disorder and mental health treatment. They offer a private and peaceful environment to begin the path to recovery. Pets are also allowed to stay during residential treatment as well, aiding in the recovery process.
To learn more about Alta Mira, call 866-922-1350 or visit their website.
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For more information about Alta Mira Recovery Programs, contact the company here:
Alta Mira Recovery Programs
Kacy DeSilva
866-922-1350
kdesilva@galenmentalhealth.com
125 Bulkley Ave Sausalito, CA 94965
