Psychosis and schizophrenia

Psychosis 

a collection of symptoms that affect the mind, where there has been some loss of contact with reality. During an episode of psychosis, a person’s thoughts and perceptions are disrupted and they may have difficulty recognizing what is real and what is not.

Schizophrenia 

Serious mental disorder in which people interpret reality abnormally. Schizophrenia may result in some combination of hallucinations, delusions, and extremely disordered thinking and behavior that impairs daily functioning, and can be disabling

Symptoms of schizophrenia may include:

psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, speech, and movement

negative symptoms, like lacking emotional expression and social withdrawal

cognitive symptoms, such as difficulty paying attention or challenges using information they’ve learned

Communication with them:

Practice active listening. Alongside this, pay close attention to their body language to get a better understanding of their inner feelings, perceptions, and needs.

Be patient during conversations. Acknowledge and validate their feelings whenever you can, even if you don’t fully agree with their beliefs.

Allow them time to process. Because they may have trouble staying on track or gathering their thoughts during conversations, give them some time and space to process what you say.

Simplify information whenever possible. Break down information or tasks into simpler steps to help them understand what you’re saying. Talk in short, clear sentences whenever possible.

Encourage them. If they experience low motivation (a common symptom), offer encouragement and praise them when they complete tasks.

Recognize psychosis and give them space. If they appear to be experiencing an episode of psychosis, allow them enough time and space so they can reasonably recover. Seek help if you recognize safety concerns.