Psychosis Specialist
Latif Ziyar, MD
Psychiatrist located in Fresno, CA
About 3% of people in the United States experience psychosis at some point in their lives. Licensed psychiatrist Latif Ziyar, MD, treats children, adolescents, and adults experiencing psychosis at his private practice in Fresno, California. If you or a loved one experience hallucinations, paranoia, or other symptoms of psychosis, call or book an appointment online as soon as possible.
Psychosis Q & A
What is psychosis?
Psychosis involves a disruption in thoughts and perceptions that can cause a loss of contact with reality. Also called a psychotic episode, psychosis may be a symptom of a mental or physical condition, but isn’t a disorder in and of itself.
Psychosis may include false beliefs (delusions) and seeing or hearing things that others don’t (hallucinations). Examples of delusions include:
- Believing that external forces are controlling your thoughts or behaviors
- Believing that trivial events, objects, or remarks have a greater significance
- Thinking you have supernatural or god-like powers
Hallucinations may include hearing voices, feeling strange sensations, or seeing people or objects that aren’t there.
What causes psychosis?
A variety of factors can lead to psychosis. This state may be a symptom of an underlying mental illness, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Other causes of psychosis include sleep deprivation and drug or alcohol abuse.
What are early warning signs of psychosis?
Psychosis usually develops gradually and, if left untreated, worsens over time. Early treatment provides the greatest chance of slowing or reversing the effects of psychosis. A psychotic episode may include the following signs and symptoms:
- Hearing, seeing, or tasting things others don’t
- Persistent, bizarre thoughts or beliefs
- Strong and inappropriate emotions or no emotions at all
- Difficulty thinking clearly or concentrating
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- An unexplained decline in self-care
If you notice signs of psychosis in someone close to you, it’s important to encourage them to seek treatment as soon as possible. Dr. Ziyar can work with you to help them accept the situation and understand the need for treatment.
How is psychosis treated?
Dr. Ziyar performs a thorough physical and psychological evaluation to determine the underlying cause of psychosis. He then develops a treatment plan to help you or your loved one manage the condition.
Treatment for psychosis typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. If the psychosis is a symptom of a mental illness, like schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder, Dr. Ziyar treats the underlying condition as well.
For expert care of psychosis and related mental health conditions, call the office of Latif Ziyar, M.D., Inc, or book an appointment online today.