Alcohol has been around for thousands of years and has become a part of many cultures, serving as a widely accepted social lubricant and stress reliever. However, excessive and long-term alcohol consumption can have severe consequences on one’s physical, mental health, and overall health.
One such consequence is alcohol-induced psychosis, a condition characterized by experiences of hallucinations, delusions, and other psychotic symptoms as a result of alcohol abuse. This mental health condition exhibits several symptoms which can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. It’s, therefore, important to seek immediate medical attention from a reputable individual and group medical rehabilitation center for the treatment of this condition.
With that being said, let’s enlighten you about alcohol-induced psychosis and the numerous symptoms that accompany the condition.
Definition Of Alcohol-Induced Psychosis
Alcohol-induced psychosis is a form of substance-induced psychotic disorder that can occur after or during chronic alcohol consumption. It’s a mental condition characterized by the exhibition of psychotic symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking. The onset of symptoms can vary and may develop within a few hours or several days after alcohol ingestion. The symptoms of alcohol-induced psychosis are sometimes similar to other mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia.
Types Of Alcohol-induced Psychosis
Alcohol-induced psychosis can be categorized into several subtypes, each with its unique features and symptoms. The three most common types are:
Alcohol Withdrawal Psychosis
AWD is a type of psychosis that occurs during the withdrawal period after long-term heavy drinking, especially if the individual abruptly stops drinking. This type of psychosis is often accompanied by severe symptoms, and it can be life-threatening. The common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal psychosis include hallucinations, delusions, and agitation.
Acute Alcohol Intoxication
This is a rare type of alcohol-induced psychosis that occurs after binge drinking. It often occurs when a person drinks excessive amounts of alcohol, which resultantly leads to alcohol poisoning. The common symptoms may include confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations. Most times, when people experience acute alcohol intoxication, they are usually left unconscious after the symptoms wear off.
Chronic Alcoholic Hallucinosis
This type of psychosis is a rare but severe form of alcohol-induced psychosis that occurs in people with a history of long-term heavy drinking. Symptoms may include auditory hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions. Chronic alcohol hallucinosis often occurs once in a while and could last for hours or days, which could gradually increase until it lasts indefinitely.
Other Symptoms Of Alcohol-induced Psychosis
In addition to the specific symptoms associated with the different categories of alcohol-induced psychosis mentioned earlier, there are other common symptoms that individuals may experience;
Mood changes
This can include depression, fear, anxiety, loss of interest, and agitation.
Disorientation and confusion
Alcohol-induced psychosis can cause disorientation, confusion, and difficulty concentrating, which can be particularly distressing and disorienting for the individual.
Paranoia
Many people with various forms of alcohol-induced psychosis may experience feelings of paranoia, which can manifest as suspiciousness or mistrust of others hence causing a loss of touch with others and their environment.
Behavioral changes
Furthermore, alcohol-induced psychosis can also lead to changes in behavior, including restlessness, impulsivity, and a lack of inhibition.
Treatment Options For Alcohol-Induced Psychosis
Alcohol Detox
Alcohol detox is the first step in treating alcohol-induced psychosis. This involves stopping alcohol use and allowing the body to flush out the toxins, and the process lasts between 7 to 10 days. During the detox process, patients will experience severe and even life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. For this reason, it’s recommended that detoxification should be conducted in a medical facility under the close supervision of medical professionals.
Inpatient Alcohol Rehab
Inpatient alcohol rehab involves round-the-clock medical care in a residential rehabilitation setting. This type of treatment is recommended for individuals with severe alcohol-induced psychosis who need intensive therapy and medical management. Inpatient rehab typically includes individual therapy, group therapy, and other support services.
Outpatient Alcohol Rehab
Outpatient alcohol rehab may be appropriate for individuals with less severe alcohol-induced psychosis symptoms. It can be recommended for people who can manage their daily responsibilities and participate in therapy and counseling sessions. This type of treatment is typically more flexible, allowing individuals receiving treatment to continue their regular daily activities alongside the treatment.
In general, the best treatment option for alcohol-induced psychosis will depend on the individual’s specific needs and the severity of their symptoms. So make sure to seek medical help to understand the treatment option available to you. Keep in mind that with appropriate treatment, you can recover and have a better quality of life.
