Psychotic Depression

Complications Caused by Psychotic Depression

Patients living with psychotic depression often find it difficult, if not impossible, to function in the world or interact positively with their families. Often, they will experience symptoms such as:

• Frequent crying spells that are without cause
• Deep depression that stops them from going to work or school – and often, from even getting out of bed
• Auditory hallucinations
• Suicidal thoughts

Some patients attempt to medicate the issue on an outpatient basis with little support or monitoring from a medical team that specializes in the treatment of psychosis. Unfortunately, this can be dangerous. For example, if the medications are ineffective or cause side effects, the patient may be unable or unwilling to report the problem, which can increase the risk of suicidal behaviors, substance abuse or both.

Treatment of Psychotic Depression

Studies are often released exploring different options in medication for the treatment of psychotic depression. One study published by the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH) explored the option of prescribing an atypical antipsychotic medication in addition to an SSRI antidepressant medication as opposed to an antipsychotic medication alone. They found that, though about 45 percent of the study participants dropped out of the study, the dropout rate was lower among the group that was prescribed the combination of medications as opposed to those taking the single medication.

Inpatient Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Though some forms of depression may be effectively treated on an outpatient basis, it is recommended that patients who are struggling with psychotic depression seek residential Dual Diagnosis treatment, especially if substance abuse is also an issue. The benefits are many and include:

• Increased efficacy of care. When multiple disorders are present, the patient will require effective treatment for all applicable conditions. Getting care for multiple disorders at the same time increases the ability of the patient to heal without the symptoms of the untreated disorder getting in the way of the focus of treatment.
• Decreased chance of dropping out. Dropout rates are commonly an issue for patients who suffer from psychosis in any form, especially when they seek care on an outpatient basis. Residential treatment provides more support and assistance, which can reduce the dropout rate.
• Around-the-clock monitoring. In order to ensure that patients don’t suffer complications due to detox from their drug of choice or use of new medications for the treatment of psychosis, 24-hour monitoring is beneficial.
• Personalized treatment. Adjusting treatment, therapies, medication and other aspects of care to the needs of the specific patient is far easier done when patients are in constant contact with their providers.

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One phone call can connect you with the information you need to find the right Dual Diagnosis treatment program for your loved one. Contact us today.