I made this account to archive and share things related to the schizophrenia spectrum! I hope to spread awareness and help people learn more about themselves!
To me the schizophrenia spectrum includes all psychotic disorders and cluster A PDS so that is what I mostly want to focus on, but those who commonly experience psychosis because of unrelated things are also welcome!
If there's anything specific you want to find more out about but can't find anything for it yourself feel free to send me an ask and I'll do my best to gather whatever I can find!
The only mod is me, my native language isn't english so I apologise for any grammar mistakes I make. Although I am mostly professionally diagnosed/recognised I support self diagnosis!
I get paranoid and burnt out often so forgive me if I randomly disappear for a while and also don't be afraid to call me out if I ever share inaccurate sources I am only human and might make these types of mistakes!
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if you are lost in the rut, i am begging you to read this essay by Sasha Chapin suggesting what, essentially, my take, are potential jump-starts back into living life in real time. like actually experiencing experiences
do it now! donât lose months, years, or decades! there is a life beyond doomscrolling, and itâs finite (sorry. sorry. i know okay)
The first thing to know is that recognizing a delusion does not come easily- especially if you are not experienced in dealing with them. most people will only figure out that a belief is a delusion after the delusion has passed.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself:
Do trusted people in my life insist that one (or several) of my beliefs are not true?
Do I have a hard time backing up my beliefs with evidence? (particularly evidence that other people can agree with)
Are my beliefs consistent with my previous experiences? (e.g if you think your friend is trying to harm you, has that friend ever tried to harm you in the past or expressed that they want to harm you? is this a sudden change in character for them?)
Do I know what led to me believing this? (if this belief is new, do you know why you changed your mind?)
Do I have a hard time listening to other people's perspectives on my belief because my belief feels so obviously true?
Do I feel like other people are trying to lie to me or manipulate me when they offer alternatives to my belief?
No answer to these questions can single handedly rule in or out a delusion. They are just questions to ask yourself if you are questioning your belief.
as with most clinically reputable sources about symptoms of severe mental illnesses, every article about catatonia is written from an outsider's perspective.
this is what catatonia it is like for me, on the inside
feeling your muscles tighten at a slow and constant rate that you could not perform on queue. if i get stuck holding something while catatonic, my fingers will eventually dig into it so deeply that it hurts.
i get stuck in awkward positions. legs tucked underneath my body, most of my weight shifted to one side, head tilted, stuff like that. because of your muscles stiffening as well, this becomes uncomfortable in less than ten minutes, and agonizing in 20.
time passes differently. most of my catatonic episodes at this point last for upwards of 2 hours, even with ativan. but the two hours i spend while catatonic feel comparably faster than if i just decided to sit down and stare at nothing for 2 hours. (the "increased speed" does not make it more pleasant and it's not like dissociation i don't think. it's just like, usually at 1.25x speed)
i'm aware of my surroundings i literally just can do fuck all about them.
i cannot focus on anything more complex than a children's cartoon during it. i have tried putting on longer documentaries, but never get anything to stick in my brain. i still prefer longer things to watch or listen to during cataleptic catatonia tho.
my muscles burn during the whole thing from being so tense or not positioned "squarely" i.e. - shoulders hips and neck at a 90 degree angle.
i will be sore and exhausted the next day, which actually makes it more likely for me to become catatonic again.
i never know how long it will be before i can move again. 3 to 4 hours isn't out of the question (note: i feel lucky that its never gotten longer than 4 hours as catatonia can last for days)
the embarrassment. like, there's no shame in experiencing it, i know that. but it doesn't make me stop feeling like i wish i could crawl into a hole, especially when it happens in public. i hate being stared at on the best of days and being so stiff that people have to frog march you everywhere is just , it's so not fun.
screaming for help inside my head (i can't use AAC when i can't move, unless i was able to feel it coming on beforehand and set my switch up)
or, being so embarrassed that i don't want anyone to find me no matter how long it takes for me to come out of it.
when i am "coming out" of it, i slowly start to be able to move lighter body parts first, like fingers and toes, then hands and feet. the last thing i am able to move is my upper legs and torso.
i am basically dead weight during this time, and my body is hard for other people to move as well because of tension in my muscles.
any needing to go to the bathroom? either you hold it, or someone kinda has to frog march you to the toilet, or, you're gonna have to do laundry
it sucks
it doesn't stop sucking until a few days after the fact, because it's physically and emotionally exhausting
obligatory disclaimers that 1. these are only my experiences, don't use them as your only source of information about catatonia 2. my experiences only apply to cataleptic catatonia. i don't have excited catatonia, so i didn't post about it.
if anyone else wants to add their experiences with what catatonia (not freeze responses or autistic inertia, please) feels like from the inside, i would love to also hear about them.
edit because it happened a couple times: don't tag this as writing reference or similar. come on now y'all.
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(Please note I have not read The Collected Schizophrenias)
Surviving Schizophrenia by E. Fuller Torrey, guidebook to living with schizophrenia
American Psychosis by E Fuller Torrey, nonfiction book about the process of deinstitutionalization in the USA, might be triggering for some.
The Center Cannot Hold by Elyn R Saks, memoir of a Jewish schizophrenic woman who went on to become a lawyer and a psychologist.
The Collected Schizophrenias: Essays by EsmĂŠ Weijun Wang, a memoir by a woman with schizoaffective disorder and other disabilities such as PTSD and Lyme disease.
Madness: a Bipolar Life by Marya Hornbacher, this is Ms. Hornbacherâs second memoir, and details her struggles with Bipolar I. Big trigger warning for eating disorders and self harm.
An Unquiet Mind: a Memoir of Moods and Madness by Kay Redfield Jamison, a memoir of a professor who develops severe Bipolar I.
Haven't really seen anyone on here talking about it, so:
If you have psychosis, do not use ChatGPT or any other AI model to do reality checking. They're trained to agree with the user, say things to encourage further discussion/input, and in general provide "customer satisfaction." So if you ask if the moon is made of green cheese and seem really intense about it, the AI is gonna tell you it might be a possibility just to keep you happy as a customer.
Hopefully I'm preaching to the choir and everybody is leaving AI alone for mental health issues, but an AI program's willingness to go along with whatever the user is saying and exacerbate a mental health crisis is becoming a serious problem for the mentally ill. Researchers are currently studying it.
So Iâve gone inpatient twice, once in a rural hospital ward once in an urban psychiatric hospital, both in the US South. Both times I had a horrible experience. Hereâs my advice for anyone who might be going inpatient, mandatory disclaimer that I am not a professional.
Grab some clothes before you go to the ER, or have whoever is with you do so. Donât forget underwear. It will make you feel more human.
They donât allow anything sharp, or any beauty products containing alcohol. Youâre better off just not bringing any beauty products. If youâre an artist, grab loose leaf paper or print paper to take with you and mechanical pencils, because most notebooks are also forbidden.
Bring a stuffed animal if you have one, but be prepared for it to confiscated. Iâm not making this up, the urban hospital took all my stuffed animals, but the rural one allowed them.
Some of the nurses will be awful, try not to take it personally. Itâs not you, it really isnât, theyâre just awful people who should t be in this job.
They may treat you like a prisoner, I certainly was. But youâre not. If you sign in voluntarily, you can leave Against Medical Advice. You will have to have someone check what the consequences will be with your insurance, but if you sign yourself in, you can sign yourself out. I did that at my second hospitalization because of absuive staff. Iâm not recommending this, just saying itâs an option.
Advocate for yourself. If youâre not getting meds on time, make a fuss! Youâre paying for a service, you should get it.
You have the right to request another dcotor.
You have the right to refuse medical treatment, as long as you are deemed mentally capable. Please donât allow yourself to be pressured into any therapy you feel is unsafe or unnecessary. They will try and sell you services, I was even lied to about services at the psychiatric and about what my parents wanted. Stand your ground.
-None of the hospitals I was in allowed pens or pencils outside of supervised crafting time. Be prepared to have those taken, though sometimes you can ask for golf pencils, one hospital I was at had weird bendy pencils. A lot of times theyâll let you have markers.
-Even if youâre put in inpatient involuntarily, they can only hold you for 72 hours if you ask for the discharge paperwork right away
-Its not a place to make friends. People are in there for a reason, and while they may be excellent people, no one in there is in a place where itâs healthy for them to make new friends. Iâve tried to keep contact with people Iâve met in inpatient or partials many times, and itâs never worked. Folks go to hospitals because they are unhealthy, and generally need the support of known and familiar friends before theyâre healthy enough to be friends with you. Which isnât to say you shouldnât be friendly, but leave those connections behind when you leave. Itâs just not the right time in your or their life.
-Write your friends/families phone numbers on your body. Theyâll always have a phone you can use, but you likely wonât be able to access the internet and you wonât be allowed to have your cell phone.
-Try at least a little to engage in the things they offer. Monotony is terrible, boring, and unhealthy. Even though youâre allowed to stay in bed all day every day, Iâd advise against it.
-Donât panic! No one really stays in inpatient for that long. Youâll be out soon.
CBT Therapy for Psychosis: Techniques, Process, and Outcomes
Introduction
Psychosis can change the way a person thinks, feels, and understands what is real. People may hear voices, see things others donât, or strongly believe something that may not be true. These experiences can feel confusing and stressful, and they often affect daily life, relationships, and work.
While medication can help, therapy also plays an important role in recovery. One of the most helpful approaches is CBT therapy for Psychosis. This method focuses on helping people understand their thoughts and reactions so they can manage symptoms better and feel more in control.
In this blog, you will learn how CBT therapy for Psychosis works, the techniques used, the step-by-step process, and the outcomes people can expect.
Understanding Psychosis in Simple Terms
Psychosis is a condition where a person loses touch with reality for some time. It can happen due to different mental health conditions and may come and go.
Some people may hear voices or see things that others donât. Others may develop strong beliefs that feel real to them but may not be based on facts. These symptoms can lead to fear, confusion, and isolation.
CBT therapy for Psychosis does not try to argue with these experiences. Instead, it helps people understand them and respond in a calmer and safer way.
What is CBT Therapy for Psychosis?
CBT therapy for Psychosis is a type of talk therapy that helps people look at how their thoughts, feelings, and actions are connected. It is a structured and supportive process where the therapist and the person work together.
The goal is not to force someone to change their beliefs. Instead, the therapist helps them explore their thoughts and find new ways to understand their experiences. Over time, this reduces stress and improves daily functioning.
This therapy is usually done in regular sessions and focuses on small, practical steps that bring real-life improvement.
Key Ideas Behind CBT Therapy for Psychosis
CBT therapy for Psychosis is based on a few simple ideas. One important idea is that how we think about something affects how we feel. For example, if a person believes a voice is dangerous, they may feel scared. If they learn to see it differently, the fear may reduce.
Another idea is that avoiding situations can make fear stronger. CBT gently encourages people to face situations step by step so they can build confidence.
The therapy also focuses on understanding patterns. Once a person sees what triggers their symptoms, they can learn better ways to handle them.
Common Techniques Used in CBT Therapy for Psychosis
CBT therapy for Psychosis uses practical techniques that help people manage their symptoms in daily life. These methods are simple but effective when practiced regularly.
Key Techniques
Understanding thoughts â Learning to notice and question distressing thoughts
Looking for evidence â Checking whether a belief is fully true or if there are other explanations
Behavioral testing â Trying small actions to test fears in a safe way
Coping strategies â Using methods like distraction or relaxation to reduce distress
Mindfulness â Paying attention to thoughts without reacting strongly
These techniques help reduce fear and give a sense of control over experiences.
Step-by-Step Process of CBT Therapy for Psychosis
CBT therapy for Psychosis follows a clear process, but it can be adjusted based on individual needs. Each stage builds on the previous one.
Main Stages of Therapy
Assessment â Understanding symptoms, challenges, and goals
Building trust â Creating a safe and supportive environment
Exploring experiences â Looking at thoughts, triggers, and reactions
Skill building â Learning coping methods and new ways of thinking
Applying skills â Using techniques in real-life situations
Relapse planning â Preparing for future challenges
This step-by-step approach helps people slowly gain confidence and improve their daily life.
Overview of CBT Therapy for Psychosis
Benefits of CBT Therapy for Psychosis
CBT therapy for Psychosis offers several benefits that support long-term recovery. One of the main advantages is reduced distress. Even if symptoms do not fully disappear, people often feel less afraid and more in control.
It also improves understanding. People begin to see patterns in their thoughts and reactions, which helps them respond in a healthier way.
Another important benefit is better daily functioning. As symptoms become easier to manage, people may find it easier to work, study, and maintain relationships.
The therapy also supports emotional health by reducing anxiety, sadness, and feelings of isolation.
Challenges to Keep in Mind
Like any therapy, CBT therapy for Psychosis may have some challenges. It takes time and effort, and results may not be immediate. Some people may find it hard to talk about their experiences at first.
Regular sessions and practice are important for success. Support from family or friends can also make a big difference.
In many cases, this therapy works best when combined with other treatments for a more complete approach.
Outcomes of CBT Therapy for Psychosis
CBT therapy for Psychosis has shown positive results for many people. One of the main outcomes is a reduction in how intense or distressing symptoms feel.
People often become more confident in handling their experiences. They learn how to respond calmly instead of reacting with fear.
Another outcome is improved quality of life. This includes better relationships, more social activity, and a stronger sense of independence.
The therapy also helps prevent relapse by teaching people how to manage triggers and early warning signs.
Who Can Benefit from CBT Therapy for Psychosis?
CBT therapy for Psychosis can help many different people. It is useful for those experiencing psychosis for the first time as well as those who have been dealing with it for a longer period.
It is also helpful for people who still have symptoms even after taking medication. The therapy gives them extra tools to cope and improve their daily life.
Because it is flexible, it can be adapted to suit different needs and situations.
Tips for Starting CBT Therapy for Psychosis
Starting therapy may feel like a big step, but a simple approach can make it easier. Being open to learning and trying new ideas is important.
Attending sessions regularly and practicing techniques at home can improve results. It also helps to speak honestly with the therapist about any concerns or difficulties.
Having support from close people can make the journey smoother and more encouraging.
Overview
CBT therapy for Psychosis is a practical and supportive way to manage the challenges of psychosis. It focuses on understanding thoughts and behaviors, helping people respond to their experiences in healthier ways.
The goal is not quick fixes but steady progress. With time, effort, and the right support, individuals can improve their quality of life and feel more in control.
This approach offers hope and a clear path forward for those dealing with psychosis, making recovery feel more possible and achievable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does CBT therapy for Psychosis take?CBT therapy for Psychosis usually lasts for several weeks to a few months, depending on individual needs. Some people may need longer support, especially if symptoms are ongoing or more complex.
2. Can CBT therapy for Psychosis cure psychosis completely?This therapy does not always remove symptoms completely, but it helps reduce distress and improves control. Many people feel better equipped to manage their experiences and live a more stable life.
3. Is CBT therapy for Psychosis suitable for everyone?It can help many people, but not everyone may be ready at the same time. A personâs comfort level, symptoms, and willingness to engage in therapy play an important role in its success.
4. Do I need medication along with CBT therapy for Psychosis?In many cases, therapy works best when combined with medication. Both approaches support each other and provide a more complete way to manage symptoms and improve overall mental health.
5. What results can I expect from CBT therapy for Psychosis?Most people experience reduced stress, better understanding of their symptoms, and improved daily functioning. Over time, they often feel more confident, independent, and capable of handling challenges related to psychosis.
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Be respectful when asking about our disorders. There comes a point when your questions can become voyeuristic and make the psychotic person uncomfortable. We donât owe you the intimate details of our illness, and often recalling this information might make the psychotic person uncomfortable. Itâs okay to be curious but be respectful and donât push it.
Hey guys, I made a symprom log for psychotic disorders. It has spaces for hallucinations, delusions, negative symptoms, and cognitivie symptoms. Feel free to print and use!
Inspired by this post I made recently (has more info)! I also touch on discernment in this post on cults, this post on beginner witchcraft research (but I also recommend checking out this resource on research), and this post where I answer a Q&A post of questions!
Table of Contents:
A quick introduction to discernment
A bunch of sections highlighting various resources to learn more
How spirit attachments interact with mental illness
Thank you
A quick introduction to discernment:
Mundane vs magical. It's important to practice and explore all possibilities of a situation, including (but not limited to) your mental health status, physical health concerns, and spiritual concerns. Don't forget, you're still human, so explore human experiences just as much as you explore the experiences of the human spirit!
Mundane before magical? "Mundane before magical" is a rule of thumb that a lot of people follow, but I prefer "mundane and magical." Consider both possibilities because both are equally important and possible. Do not hold own over the other, or it can worsen the issue. I talk more about this topic (either directly or showcasing how it works) in this post about love spells, manipulation and free will; this post about spirit attachments; this post about how the magical and the mundane often are similar / go hand-in-hand; and this post on broke witch hacks!
If you're experiencing a crisis or emergency, contact local support (such as a hotline, helpline, hospital, etc). If someone you love is exhibiting concerning symptoms, please reach out to somebody on their behalf, and / or follow any safety plans you made with them. If you don't feel like you're in an urgent situation but you're still concerned, please schedule an appointment with a doctor, therapist or counselor. I understand that many of these options are not always accessible, but there are free services nationally that you can access.
Religious delusions: Signs and when to seek help
The following is directly translated from the source linked in the title. I have not translated the entirety of the article, so please consider reading it still. Anything I wrote is in this section is additional information / commentary / insights and it is written in blue.
The term âdelusionâ refers to a strong, consuming belief in something that is untrue. Religious delusions involve beliefs concerning religious ideologies or figures.
Religious delusions differ from religious and spiritual beliefs or faith. This means that anyone can experience religious or spiritual delusions, regardless of belief system or religious / spiritual identity; this involves witches, atheists, pagans, christians, etc. They are associated with certain psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia or other conditions that alter a personâs mental state.
The content of religious delusions can vary. A person with religious delusions may feel sure that a religious figure or deity is speaking to them or that they themselves embody a religious figure. This can look like hearing voices, believing you are a god or otherwise the "chosen one" or a prophet, believing you are immune to avergae human issues, etc.
Treatment for religious delusions will depend on an individualâs specific circumstances but could include medication as well as various psychotherapies.
The American Psychological Association defines religious delusions as âany delusion associated with religious content.â These delusions may involve a person believing they have special abilities or powers or that they are a religious prophet or messiah.
Individuals experiencing religious delusions usually have more severe symptoms and feel more convinced that their delusions are real than those experiencing certain other kinds of delusions.
A personâs immediate social and family environment can influence religious delusions, and these delusions can affect people even if they are not religious. This means that their delusions can be fed or altered by those around them, and also impact their overall wellness.
Symptoms can include:
paranoia
performing excessive religious rituals
unshakeable belief in false information
grandiose beliefs
extreme guilt or feelings of being punished
incoherent or jumbled thoughts and communication
extreme emotional responses to religious topics
withdrawing from social life
neglecting responsibilities
defensive behavior in response to reason
Some people are more likely to experience related conditions or symptoms, such as grandiose delusions that Bipolar people are more likely to experience as a sign of their mental health conditions / illnesses / disorders.
Early Serious Mental Illness Guide for Faith Communities
This resource did not load for me, so I am unsure if it is still accessible, but I figured I'd include it regardless just to be safe.
To clarify, I did review this resource and verify it previously, it was just many months ago so I can't recall its exact contents at this time.
Psychosis and Religion
The above resource is a personal experience (not mine) / opinion piece on psychosis and religion. This resource serves as example of someone who experiences religious psychosis / delusions, and their viewpoint on the matter as a non-doctor.
Social Support and Religion: Mental Health Service Use and Treatment of Schizophrenia
This research study is a great academic piece on the matter, but may be missing important information. It can be good for general reference, but please do not rely on this resource alone for knowledge on the topic as it doesn't consider diverse beliefs, which play a huge role in identifying or not identifying things like mental health issues.
Navigating My Relationship with Religion While Living with Mental Illness
This is a great resource outlining how religious beliefs and mental health conditions can coincide, be detrimental to someone, and also be present separately and / or in harmony in somebody's life.
The following is the introduction excerpt from the article linked in the title directly copy and pasted:
I was born and raised in a deeply Catholic home. Accordingly, my cultural upbringing was inseparable from my religion; I went to church every Sunday and actively engaged with my faith community. As I grew up, my participation in religious activities waned, but I always had faith in God.
However, when I began struggling with severe mental illness, I started challenging my faith. I believed that God was angry and punishing me. This uncertainty compounded my pain and fear. How could I get better if He did not love me?
Religion even appeared in the thick of my struggles; during my severe psychotic manic episodes, I experienced hyper-religiosity. In some instances, I believed that God had chosen me as a messenger. After the mania subsided, I found myself angry that God would âlead meâ to believe this.
Amid my mental health struggles and tenuous relationship with God, my self-love, self-esteem and self-worth plummeted. However, I found hope during my last hospitalization when I learned about the possibility of recovery. This renewed sense of possibility encouraged me to view my life â and my relationship with God â more optimistically.
My breakthrough was buoyed by my chance encounter with a Catholic nun, which I viewed as a âsignâ from God. Through writings and teachings, she convinced me that God did, in fact, love me â that my struggles were part of his greater plan for me, which would make me a better person. I began to pray to Saint Dymphna, the Catholic patron saint of mental illness. It gave me strength and comfort, especially during times of self-doubt and uncertainty.
Ultimately, religion is a highly personal matter, and no two faith experiences are identical. But all experiences are valid and worthy of consideration in mental health treatment. And despite the challenges I faced, I believe religion has the potential to be a source of strength if approached in the right way.
Some key points directly copied from the rest of article that I'd also like to highlight:
An extensive review of the existing academic literature found that 60% of people report faster reduction of depression symptoms in more religious people. Religious beliefs have also been shown to be positively associated with coping, treatment engagement and help-seeking behavior for people with schizophrenia. Some studies have found that people who are more highly religious are less likely to use substances and less likely to experience substance-related consequences.
Finding a mental health professional that is willing to incorporate religious approaches into mental health care settings can improve a personâs engagement with treatment and improve their outcomes.
Integrating mental health tools into religious practice can be difficult as there is often a lack of mental health resources in houses of faith. However, faith leaders must prepare themselves to discuss mental health issues and encourage community members to seek help. The American Psychiatric Associationâs mental health guide can help guide this discussion... These conversations can make a huge difference, much like talking to a Catholic nun did for me...
Progress is achievable; several existing initiatives are helping participants improve their lives, feel valued by society, connect with others and have positive relationships with their loved ones and community.
People with mental illness who have struggled long enough will question several aspects of their lives, including their most sacred beliefs. All people with mental illness need hope to reach recovery. This hope, in some cases, can be derived from religion. God is, once again, a source of hope for me, and I pray heâll keep me well.
Working with patients with religious beliefs
This research article is incredibly important, in my opinion, and is the article I was reminded of when making the post I linked at the start of this post.
Abstract (directly copy and pasted from the link in the title of this section):
"Mental health professionals in Western societies are generally less religious than their patients and receive little training in religious issues. Using case studies, the author discusses issues involved in working with patients who hold religious beliefs: problems of engagement; countertransference; religious and spiritual issues not attributable to mental disorder; problems of differential diagnosis; religious delusions; religion and psychotherapy; psychosexual problems; and religiously oriented treatments. The article ends with a discussion of the various ways in which religious themes can be incorporated into mental health work, especially the need to involve religious professionals and develop collaborative patterns of working together with mental health professionals."
Is It a Spiritual Experience--Or a Psychotic Episode?
The link in the title of this section is also another personal account (not mine) to learn from. It focuses on two personal insights of the author:
That religious experiences are usually visual (as opposed to auditory)
That religious experiences are usually pleasant (as opposed to encouraging or sparking harm, fear, rage, etc)
Spirit Attachments + Illness / Conditions
Keeping balance of wellness amongst each of our bodies (spiritual, mental, etc) is important. After all, two of our bodily functions (intuition / sixth sense and our nervous system) are inherently spiritual (as noted by western science and multiple spiritual belief systems). However, what happens when that balance is disturbed?
A common symptom of a spirit attachment involves the active worsening of illnesses or conditions. (To learn more about what a spirit attachment is, check out this post.)
To clarify: I am not saying that the cause of disabilities is harmful spirits. As a chronically ill woman myself, I know better than that. However, as someone also with experience with a spirit attachment and as a spiritual professional who studies both spiritual and physical / mental health and well-being of an individual, I can say confidently that many attachments worsen pre-existing conditions or the stress can worsen / cause chronic conditions. Additionally, these conditions can show increasing improvement once a spirit attachment is thoroughly removed and healing and / or recovery from the attachment commences.
Additionally, spirit attachments can cause:
odd emotions (usually negative but sometimes extremely positive) for seemingly no reason, or more intense than natural for you
urge to self-isolate and reluctance / lack of motivation to get better
increased amount of stress, depression, etc
speaking to you in your head, or influencing your thoughts (making them feel like they "aren't your thoughts")
and other symptoms
This can be hard to navigate because religious / spiritual delusions also can show negatively on the body, whether it be mental or physical. There are some key things to keep in mind:
Always look into both. Whether you believe it's an attachment or psychosis, look into both in order to keep yourself healthy and safe
Note the physical symptoms of a spirit attachment that unaffiliated with your mind and body: random bruises or markings on your body, the "muting" or "paling" of your colors (skin, hair, etc), an uptick in flies that surround you regardless of season, etc
Note the extreme symptoms of psychosis that can be unaffiliated with a spirit attachment: feeling like a god / invincible or incredibly impulsive, feeling like a messiah or divine messenger based on the voices alone, etc
Before and after: If you get a service from somebody credible who removes your attachment, see when the symptoms decrease and if / how you improve. Try to track it so that you can compare it to that of a mental health episode timeline-wise as well
Think about previous abilities or gifts: Were you able to see, hear or feel spirits before concerning symptoms showed up?
Think about previous issues: Do you have a history of mental health issues? Do you come from a toxic social environment? Etc
Listen to your intuition: What is your gut instinct telling you, logic and experiences aside?
Looking to remove or inquire about a spirit attachment? Feel free to inquire with me via DM or at the link in my bio! I do this often and I do have reviews. Feel free to ask me any questions at any time, or send an Ask!
What I've learned is that the key differences between spiritual psychosis and spiritual gifts are how they impact one's life and how in-touch to reality they are. These are some studies that help note the differences between a mental health issue and spiritual gifts:
Think piece / personal account (not mine): Are You Spiritual Or Psychotic? (Psych Central)
Spiritual understandings of psychosis: the perspectives of spiritual care staff (study)
Psychosis or Spiritual Emergence? - Consideration of the Transpersonal Perspective within Psychiatry (study)
Narrative insight in psychosis: The relationship with spiritual and religious explanatory frameworks (narrative / study)
Synchronistic Experience: Enlightenment or Psychosis? (not written by a doctor / mental health professional)
Is It Psychosis or a Spiritual Emergency? (Psychology Today)
Religion, Spirituality, and Schizophrenia: A Review (study)
The Danger of Misunderstood Spiritual Gifts & Their Role in Addiction (blog-post by SoberRecovery)
Hot take: "Spiritual gifts without grounding is just psychosis."
Spiritual Psychosis vs. Spiritual Awakening: How to Tell the Difference (Insula Wellbeing)
Breakdowns and âShift-Upsâ (Psychology Today)
Spiritual Psychosis vs Spiritual Awakening: The Subtle Line (blog-post; Medium)
Differentiating Spiritual and Psychotic Experiences: Sometimes a Cigar Is Just a Cigar (published university paper)
The Difference Between A Spiritual Awakening and Psychosis (podcast)
Please note that the list of resources noted directly above was only briefly skimmed on my end as they were a last-minute addition before posting, so please do further research on them before trusting their information with 100% certainty.
Thank you!
Thanks for taking the time to check out this post. I hope it helps. <3
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The most recent episode of the schizophrenia podcast I like talked about cognitive symptoms and I'm glad they did this one because it's not talked about much.
(I don't know if there's notable differences between schizophrenia and schizoaffective when it comes to the cognitive effects but I definitely have experienced cognitive issues after the onset of the disorder, and my brain took more hits after more episodes.)
Problem solving skills, memory, attention, decisions, idk what else. It's just so frustrating. I feel so stupid so often. I didn't used to be this way, it scares me sometimes how slow my brain feels. I think it's the source of a lot of anxiety for me. I literally can't process situations the way I should be able to, so it's scary to think about being in a situation where I know I'll get confused â âgetting confused scares me. Everything feels so overwhelming and I want to hide from it.
It's not just lack of self-confidence, I'm actually struggling to keep up. It's shows up in my everyday life, makes bigger things and responsibilities hard, and makes me shy away from things I don't already have a memorized solution for.
I fear that it's just an excuse but it's a real thing and I can't deny that.
Dr. Derin Cobia, a clinical neuropsychologist, joins to share his research on cognition in schizophrenia.
Just a reminder not to forget you can use ublock origin on your phone to play YouTube videos without ads while you sleep â âbecause that's just super annoying. It really is useful for audio hallucinations.
It's been a while since I've had to play YouTube videos to cope the voices but last night they were non-stop. Lofi and cafe vlogs are my soundtracks of choice. The combination of soothing music and ambient noises is perfect.
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