Psychotic Disorders Specialist

What are psychotic disorders?

Psychotic disorders are mental health conditions that cause abnormal perceptions, thinking, and behavior patterns. They can be very serious when left untreated. Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and delusional disorders are common psychotic disorders Dr. DeLuca can treat.

What are the symptoms of psychotic disorders?

Common symptoms associated with psychotic disorders include:

• Abnormal thinking and behaviors
• Losing touch with reality
• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Hearing voices
• Abnormal motor behaviors
• Disorganized behavior and speech
• Inability to function normally in society
• Thoughts of suicide
• Anxiety or depression
• Problems at work or school
• Alcohol and drug abuse
• Financial problems
• Social isolation
• Physical medical problems
• Being victimized

Immediate treatment is crucial if you or a loved one shows signs of a psychotic disorder, as self-harm or harming other people is sometimes a concern.

What are the risk factors for psychotic disorders?

The cause of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders isn’t known, but some factors may increase your risk of developing them. Examples include:

• Family history of psychotic disorders
• Brain chemistry
• Environmental factors
• Pregnancy or birth complications
• Malnutrition
• Toxin or virus exposure
• Misusing drugs

While you might not be able to prevent a psychotic disorder, sticking to your treatment plan can greatly reduce the chance of serious complications.

How does a psychiatrist diagnose psychotic disorders?

To find out if you have a psychotic disorder, Dr. DeLuca discusses your symptoms and medical history. He completes a physical exam and could order blood tests, urine tests, CT scans, MRIs, or other imaging procedures to get an in-depth picture of your brain, physical health, and overall health and wellness.

He also completes a comprehensive psychiatric assessment by asking you a series of questions before developing a personalized mental health treatment.

What are common treatments for psychotic disorders?

If you have schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder, Dr. DeLuca may suggest one or more of the following treatments:

• Lifestyle changes
• Medications
• Psychotherapy
• Individual therapy
• Social skills training
• Family therapy
• Supported employment
• Vocational rehabilitation
• Hospitalization

He personalizes each treatment to help you best thrive in your environment, become a productive member of society, and live life to its fullest.

To get evaluated or treated for a psychotic disorder, call Mark DeLuca, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.