Understanding drug-induced psychosis: Causes, symptoms, and treatments

Psychosis, also called a psychotic episode, is when a person loses contact with reality. During psychosis, people are unable to recognize what is and isn’t real. For example, they may see or hear things that don’t exist or have strange thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Psychosis often begins during young adulthood, and data suggest that 15 to 100 out of every 100,000 people develop psychosis each year.

There are several risk factors for psychosis, including genetic predisposition, brain chemistry and structure, and exposure to trauma. Psychosis is also a symptom of mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. And a certain type of psychosis, known as drug-induced psychosis, can be triggered by drugs, alcohol, and certain prescription medications.

What is drug-induced psychosis?

Drug-induced psychosis refers to any psychotic episode that’s triggered by unhealthy substance use. Psychosis can occur from having an adverse reaction to a substance or by taking too much. It can also happen during withdrawal or as a result of an underlying mental health issue.

Many cases of drug-induced psychosis relate to ongoing substance use, with one study reporting that 74% of people who were admitted to the hospital with first-episode psychosis had a substance use disorder diagnosis during their lifetime. 

It’s also worth noting that while drug-induced psychosis is typically brief, ongoing substance use may trigger the onset of other psychotic conditions in people who are predisposed to them. For example, a recent review found that drug-induced psychosis can lead to an increased risk of developing schizophrenia.

Which substances can cause drug-induced psychosis?

Not all substances can trigger psychosis, but several categories of drugs have been linked to psychotic episodes. 

• Stimulants: Stimulants are drugs that increase activity in the body’s central nervous system, which can boost alertness, attention, and energy. Stimulants like cocaine, methamphetamine, and amphetamines have been linked to psychosis, especially when taken in high doses or for prolonged periods of time. 

• Hallucinogens: Hallucinogens, also known as psychedelics, are drugs that change people’s perception of reality. In some cases, hallucinogens like LSD, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), and PCP can cause psychotic episodes.

• Prescription medications: Drug-induced psychosis can even be caused by certain prescription medications, especially with high doses or prolonged use. Examples include antihistamines, antidepressants, cardiovascular medications, and corticosteroids.

• Other substances: Cannabis, alcohol, and bath salts have also been linked to psychosis. 

What are the signs and symptoms of drug-induced psychosis?

Drug-induced psychosis symptoms may vary based on the type of drug and how much a person consumes. Symptoms typically occur during substance use or the withdrawal process, and improve shortly after. But they may continue for a month or longer in some cases. 

Delusions and hallucinations are two of the most common symptoms of drug-induced psychosis. A delusion is a strong belief in something that is not true. And a hallucination is a sensory experience, like a sound or vision, that seems real but is created by the mind. 

Other potential signs and symptoms of drug-induced psychosis include: 

• Disorganized thinking
• Paranoia
• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Depersonalization
• Disorientation

How is drug-induced psychosis treated?

It’s common for people to experience psychotic symptoms for more than a year before receiving treatment, but the sooner you seek professional support, the sooner you can begin your healing journey. 

Some research shows that there are factors that can prevent additional psychotic episodes in young people. These include a shorter duration of untreated psychosis, quicker treatment response, and remaining in contact with a loved one.

1. Detox

With drug-induced psychosis, symptoms often improve once the substance is out of a person’s system. While some people detox on their own, others may require a medical detox to help them safely eliminate toxins and control withdrawal symptoms with the support of medical professionals. 

2. Medication

In some cases, medications like antipsychotics and benzodiazepines are used to reduce or stop psychosis symptoms. However, this may depend on a person’s health history and the substance that triggered the psychosis.

3. Talk therapy

Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help manage delusions and symptoms of substance use disorders or other mental health conditions. Family therapy can also be an effective tool for helping people and their loved ones learn better coping and communication skills to prevent future episodes or manage other health conditions. 

4. Relapse prevention

Relapse prevention strategies are essential for preventing future episodes of drug-induced psychosis. Examples include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing stress management techniques, and following your mental health treatment plan. You may also consider creating a relapse prevention plan that includes potential triggers for psychosis, early warning signs of an episode, and emergency contact information.

How can you help someone experiencing drug-induced psychosis?

If you’re with someone when they’re experiencing a psychotic episode, try to remain calm, offer emotional support, and reassure them that they’re safe. If the person is experiencing severe symptoms — like delusions, paranoia, or suicidal behavior — seek immediate medical attention.

After an acute episode has passed, social support continues to play an important role in the recovery process. Encourage your loved one to follow their treatment plan, attend therapy sessions, and avoid substances that may trigger future episodes of psychosis.

Find care with Rula

If you or someone you know has experienced drug-induced psychosis and you’re concerned about the mental health effects, consider seeking professional support. Early intervention and appropriate treatment are important for reducing the risk of future episodes and long-term complications.

At Rula, we make it easier for people to access the support they need to manage their symptoms. We collaborate with an extensive network of behavioral therapists who can provide an evaluation, make a diagnosis, and help you find the best care for you. With Rula’s easy-to-use therapist-matching program, you can find the right provider for your needs in less than 30 seconds and begin treatment as early as this week.

Find care with Rula