Brief Psychotic Disorder (cont.)
How Is Brief Psychotic Disorder Diagnosed?
If symptoms are present, the doctor will perform a complete
medical history and physical examination. Although there are no laboratory
tests to specifically diagnose brief psychotic disorder, the doctor may use
various tests—such as x-rays or blood tests—to rule out physical illness
as the cause of the symptoms.
If the doctor finds no physical reason for the symptoms, he or
she may refer the person to a psychiatrist or psychologist, mental health
professionals who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illnesses.
Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment
tools to evaluate a person for a psychotic disorder. Brief psychotic disorder
occurs when a person has psychotic symptoms, such as delusions, hallucinations
and disorganized thinking, for less than one month, after which time the
symptoms go away completely.
How Is Brief Psychotic Disorder Treated?
Treatment for brief psychotic disorder typically includes
psychotherapy (a type of counseling) and/or medication. Hospitalization may be
necessary if the symptoms are severe or if there is a risk that the person may
harm him or herself, or others.
- Medication: Antipsychotic drugs may be prescribed to decrease or eliminate the symptoms and
end the brief psychotic disorder. Conventional antipsychotics include:
Thorazine, Prolixin, Haldol, Navane, Stelazine, Trilafon and Mellaril. Newer
medications, called atypical antipsychotic drugs, include: Risperdal, Clozaril,
Seroquel, Geodon and Zyprexa. Tranquilizers such as Ativan or Valium may be
used if the person has a very high level of anxiety (nervousness) and/or
problems sleeping.
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy helps the person identify and cope with the situation or event
that triggered the disorder.
Next: What is the outlook for people with brief psychotic disorder? »
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