LSU Health Shreveport and Volunteers of America North Louisiana have partnered to create a mental health EpiCenter program to provide youth and adults treatment for psychosis. Vice Chair of Psychiatry at LSU Health Shreveport Dr. Pamela McPherson said psychosis is more common than you might think.
“We know that about three out of 100 young people will experience a psychotic episode. So that means that psychosis is more common than diabetes in young people,” said McPherson.
McPherson said receiving intensive treatment in the first few years of one’s psychosis is imperative for a better outcome. While there are common misconceptions about psychosis, McPherson said it is a medical condition that affects the brain.
“A person’s thought and perception can become distorted. So, they might have trouble understanding what’s real or what’s not real. They may be hearing or seeing things that other people don’t hear or see,” said McPherson.
She said they may also feel scared, and suspicious, that someone is trying to control their thoughts and have beliefs that are not normal for them or people in their family or community.
McPherson urges individuals when they see someone struggling with mental issues to intervene and know that help is available.
“We have medical professionals in north Louisiana and across the state who are ready to answer questions and provide the intensive support and medical treatment that their loved ones require,” said McPherson.
Psychosis can be brought on by medications, substance abuse, or even toxic metals. McPherson said it can also be a symptom of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, dementia, and even depression.
Comments