Are psychosis and schizophrenia the same thing? 

No, psychosis and schizophrenia are not the same. Psychosis is an experience, while schizophrenia is a diagnosis that often includes psychosis.

What is psychosis?

Psychosis means losing touch with reality. This can involve seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations) or holding strong beliefs that others don’t share (delusions).

Psychosis can happen as part of several mental health conditions, not just schizophrenia. 

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a specific mental health condition. It affects how you think, feel, and behave. Psychosis is usually one part of schizophrenia, but schizophrenia also includes other symptoms, like lack of motivation or withdrawing from social life.

Why does the difference matter?

Understanding the difference helps people get the right support. Not everyone who experiences psychosis has schizophrenia, and not everyone with schizophrenia will have the same symptoms.

What should you do?

If you’re worried about psychosis or schizophrenia, reach out to a mental health professional. The right help can make a real difference.

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