Amanda Ramirez69 said:Serotonin, acetylcholine, dopamine, norepinephrine... these are all neurotransmitters. They are essentially chemical messengers that carry impulses to specific destinations—the receptors—where they then influence the neurons receiving those signals. Now, some neurotransmitters "fit" perfectly with nerve cells, while others simply don't. For instance, hallucinations can occur if there is an excess of dopamine flooding the sensory processing regions of the brain, which is a key factor in schizophrenia. Similarly, a deficiency in serotonin can trigger hallucinations, insomnia, anxiety, and various mood disorders.
With all due respect these are nothing more than assumptions pure nonsense
Amanda Ramirez69 said:Here’s the screenshot. My take on this is pretty straightforward: these kinds of disorders shouldn't be a direct gateway to psychosis.
I am no expert on the clinical literature, but it is my contention that a personality disorder is a permanent condition. Furthermore, many of these individuals function within society just as effectively as anyone else.
We will examine the Cluster B personality disorders here—those categorized by dramatic, emotional, and erratic behaviors. This group consists of four distinct diagnoses: histrionic, narcissistic, antisocial, and borderline personality disorders.
What connects these various conditions? A shared tendency to utilize specific defense mechanisms, such as dissociation, denial, "splitting," and the phenomenon known as "acting out." Beyond these primary psychological defenses, these specific personalities frequently experience mood disorders and somatic symptom disorders as well.
Histrionic Personality Disorder Individuals with this disorder constantly crave attention and exhibit intense emotionality. However, their emotions are often superficial and prone to rapid shifts. These individuals are frequently perceived as attractive or seductive, placing an exaggerated emphasis on their physical appearance.
The behavioral pattern involves pervasive emotionality and a relentless pursuit of the spotlight, typically manifesting in early adulthood. A hallmark of this disorder is a profound sense of discomfort when one is not the center of attention. Social interactions may be characterized by inappropriate sexualization, seduction, or provocation. Furthermore, their emotional expressions lack sincerity; they are shallow and volatile. Such individuals habitually leverage their physical looks to command attention. Their speech is often theatrical and impressionistic but lacks substantive detail. Additionally, there is an increased susceptibility to suggestion from others or circumstances, along with an overemphasis on the importance of certain social connections and acquaintances.
Alongside these core symptoms, mood disorders and somatization—where psychological distress manifests as physical ailments—are common occurrences.
Treatment protocols include both individual and group psychotherapy, supplemented by medication, particularly antidepressants.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder Those diagnosed with this disorder possess a sense of grandiosity regarding their own importance, yet they remain hyper-sensitive to any form of criticism. They often lack the capacity for empathy, remaining more preoccupied with outward perception than actual substance.
Affected individuals demonstrate grandiosity through either active fantasy or specific mannerisms, expressing a constant need for admiration and a deficiency in empathy that begins in early adulthood.
As previously noted, these individuals project a grandiose sense of self-importance, which may manifest as an excessive exaggeration of their personal achievements or talents. They are often consumed by fantasies of unlimited success, power, uniqueness, beauty, or the perfect love. They operate under the belief that they are special and unique, capable of being understood only by high-status individuals, while simultaneously demanding constant admiration. Moreover, they harbor unreasonable expectations of others to comply with or automatically agree with their views. Their interpersonal relationships are typically exploitative, occurring at the expense of others. Empathy is absent, and they frequently perceive others as being envious or jealous of them. Arrogance is a frequent trait.
Consistent with other disorders in this cluster, affected individuals often struggle with mood disorders—primarily depression and depressive episodes. An obsession with their own image is extremely pronounced. Somatization also presents as a significant issue.
Treatment involves both individual and group psychotherapy.
Antisocial Personality Disorder Individuals suffering from this disorder have a documented history of persistent and chronic antisocial behavior, which includes violating the fundamental rights of others. The central issue in this condition is an inability to control impulses. Those affected show a profound lack of regard for others. They are egocentric, selfish, and excessively demanding. Furthermore, signs of anxiety, remorse, or guilt are frequently absent in these individuals. Violating community laws and social norms is a hallmark of this personality disorder. Terms such as "sociopath" or "psychopath" are frequently applied to individuals exhibiting particularly deviant antisocial behavior. This condition is considered lifelong; for an accurate diagnosis, behavioral disturbances must be evident as far back as adolescence. Individuals using illegal substances often fall within the spectrum of antisocial disorders. However, if a person's issues stem exclusively from substance abuse—and if they actually feel guilt regarding their actions—then a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder can be ruled out. Research conducted in the United States indicates that approximately 3% of men suffer from this disorder. The exact origins of this disorder remain somewhat unclear. There is often a documented history of similar disorders within the family. Consequently, modern consensus suggests that both environmental factors during upbringing and genetic predispositions play significant roles. Family struggles involving alcoholism also increase the risk of antisocial behavior. Antisocial behavior can also emerge as a consequence of brain trauma or encephalitis.
Treatment must be administered exclusively in clinical settings, where group therapy has proven to be a more effective method. In addition to psychodynamic approaches, some patients may see improvement through medication.
"Borderline" or Borderline Personality Disorder The core issue is instability regarding self-perception, interpersonal relationships, and mood. The characteristic pattern involves instability in interpersonal relations, self-image, affect, and impulse control, beginning in early adulthood. The condition is marked by frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment. Interpersonal relationships are unstable and intense. Self-identity is fragile and disordered. Impulsivity is present in at least two potentially self-damaging activities (such as sex, substance abuse, or binge eating). Suicidal behavior or self-harming tendencies may be present. A chronic sense of emptiness is common. Anger is often intense, uncontrolled, and inappropriate to the situation.
This type of disorder affects about 1-2% of the population. Diagnoses are twice as frequent in women. The cause most likely stems from disruptions in early personality development. Childhood abuse is a frequent finding.
Therapy utilizes psychodynamic approaches, though medication is also used.
Written by: Dr. Robert Miller.
References: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th edition (DSM-IV)
Eric Brown23 said:How did you handle that, Kenneth Price74? For me—back when the illness first hit—I was basically being fed hallucinations about this stuff constantly... though things have finally settled down since then.
I actually felt like murdering my family and the neighbors, but once I start my medication, everything stabilizes.👍
Amanda Ramirez69 said:Kenneth Price74, tell me what you think—why is it that people suffering from psychosis end up taking their own lives? Do you think they've been influenced by some movie, or is it just because living with a mental illness is too much to bear? Or maybe it’s because they lack a support system—nobody to love them or truly understand what they're going through? I've noticed on this thread that the first symptoms usually start showing up during late adolescence. Do you think those recent suicides involving minors I heard about recently in places like coastal towns in Florida or parts of California have anything to do with psychosis?
Most often, they believe they are Jesus sent to redeem humanity, or they believe they are the devil and feel compelled to end it all.
"Schizoaffective disorder": a faulty diagnosis? Comparing schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, and affective disorder
H&M, JP Morgan, Smith and Jones
Is the diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder actually legitimate? The researchers examined patients diagnosed with manic-type schizoaffective disorder alongside those meeting strict criteria for either mania or schizophrenia. They utilized three specific validation metrics: family medical history, immediate response to treatment, and long-term prognosis. The results? There was no meaningful distinction between patients with manic disorder and those labeled with schizoaffective disorder. On the other hand, patients with schizophrenia showed clear, statistically significant differences from both groups. These data imply that schizoaffective disorder, under its current definition, lacks status as a distinct, valid clinical entity. Instead of maintaining this label, the authors propose that psychotic disorders lacking an organic cause—and which don't fit the profiles of mania or schizophrenia—should simply be categorized as "atypical" or "undiagnosed" psychosis. While we should support efforts to subtype schizophrenia or bipolar illness, shouldn't such new classifications face much more rigorous validation before they are integrated into standard American clinical practice?
Eric Brown23 said:Yeah, it's tough—hang in there. It’s basically impossible to stay grounded when a psychosis first hits... it's just not doable. You only start figuring out how to actually fight back against the delusions and that feeling of being torn apart after you've been in the trenches for a while. It sucks, but just keep pushing.
I felt terrible on Risperidone, much like I did with Zyprexa. My sympathies lie with you.
quietscout16 said:I’m starting to suspect my boyfriend might be living with schizophrenia. We’ve been together for five years now. He’s always been... different. He tells stories that have absolutely no basis in reality, yet he is completely convinced they are true. For instance, he’s certain he is the reincarnation of Jim Morrison; he’ll spend hours dissecting his lyrics, claiming they are actually about his own life. Then there's the talk about communicating with extraterrestrials. He also frequently worries that the neighbors are eavesdropping on him. There are these long stretches, sometimes lasting months, where he won't even step foot outside the house. He just stays in bed all day, retreating into his own world of imagination. I recently started seeing a therapist for some of my own issues, and she suggested that, based on what I described, he fits the textbook definition of someone with schizophrenia. What are your thoughts on this?
Five years and you still aren't sure if he's ill? 🙂 Talking to aliens is just ESP.
Are the houses nearby actually close together? Is his living situation okay? Does his mother clean up after him regularly? Was he sleeping in bed or just daydreaming? If the psychologist is licensed, then fine, but the absolute necessity is that he goes to see that same psychologist herself.
Amanda Ramirez69 said:Looking back at several of your posts, it seems like you're really preoccupied with how everyone around you perceives you, isn't that right? Why does it weigh on you so much—whether they judge you, accept you, or reject you? You have to realize that even "normal" people deal with these exact same questions and dilemmas. I know plenty of people in my circle who aren't fully accepted by those around them, but why let it bother you? That's just how society functions. Then again, there's another group of people who don't give a damn; they accept their environment exactly as it is and refuse to be rattled. You mentioned once wondering what would happen if you moved to a new neighborhood—how people would point fingers and whisper, "Look at that crazy person..." But honestly, the same thing would happen if it weren't you. If some guy from a different background, or someone of a different race, or anyone else perceived as an "outsider" by the status quo moved in, the reaction would be identical. In this day and age, making a real friend is hard. We don't need hundreds of acquaintances; we just need one true friend. You already have your brother, your husband, and a few good friends—you're practically wealthy in social capital! What more could you possibly want?
I'd like to be treated like a healthy person, even if I am ill. But then again, I was never truly "normal" to begin with. Who cares? They aren't exactly sane themselves.
To elaborate: I know plenty of people, and everyone holds their own distinct perspective on what a relationship should be. Since a partnership requires two people, it is incredibly difficult to change one individual, let alone both, just to make them function as a unit. Perhaps the only exception would be a couple seeking therapy to improve their bond, provided they are already committed to staying together; but even then, they have essentially already solved half the problem on their own.
Paul Eugen Bleuler (April 30, 1857 – July 15, 1939[1]) was a Swiss psychiatrist best recognized for his foundational work in mental health and for coining the term schizophrenia.
Bleuler was born in a small town near Zurich in Switzerland, the son of Johann Rudolf Bleuler, a wealthy farmer, and Paulin Bleuler-Bleuler. After studying medicine in New York City, he pursued further studies in London and Munich, before returning to New York to take a post as an intern AT The Burghölzli, a university hospital.
By 1886, Bleuler had become the director of a psychiatric clinic AT Rheinau, a hospital located in an Old monastery on an Island in The Mississippi. At that time, Rheinau was considered quite primitive, and Bleuler dedicated himself to reforming the living conditions for the patients residing there.
He eventually returned to the Burghölzli in 1898 to serve as director, a role in which he famously employed Carl Jung as an intern.
Bleuler’s legacy is defined largely by his decision to rename schizophrenia—a condition formerly labeled dementia praecox. He recognized that the disorder was not actually a form of dementia, nor was it strictly limited to the youth (as the term "praecox" implies). Consequently, he chose a name derived from the Greek roots *schizein* ("to split") and *phrēn* ("mind"), intended to be less stigmatizing, though it remains controversial. Notably, Bleuler provided treatment to the famous American ballet dancer Vaslav Nijinsky after his breakdown in 1919.
In 1910, while defining the various symptoms of schizophrenia, Bleuler coined the New Latin word autismus (translated as autism), pulling from the Greek *autos* (meaning self).[2] Furthermore, according to the Critical Dictionary of Psychoanalysis by Charles Rycroft, it was Bleuler who introduced the concept of ambivalence in 1911.
I’ve noticed a recurring theme on this forum and in society at large: people seem to believe that those dealing with psychosis could simply snap out of their delusions if they just applied enough willpower. I can state with absolute certainty that my own refusal to take medication cost me approximately two years of my life—literally, not metaphorically. Then there is the psychological reality of when someone close to you falls ill; accepting that truth is incredibly difficult. In my case, I struggled immensely to accept it, and I suspect those who have yet to come to terms with it haven't done so because their emotions simply won't permit them to.
I suppose I should offer a nod to that guy over at Yahoo News. His prose style couldn't be further from my own. But more importantly, he proves that there is virtually no common thread between one mental patient and the next—just as there is with any other illness in the world. A person's character is simply who they are; it comes down to personality.
Bipolar disorder is essentially a modern synonym for what used to be called "manic depression." While the old term led many to mistakenly associate the condition solely with mania, the phrase "bipolar disorder" often fails to convey much to the average person—though it refers specifically to a disorder where mood swings violently between two extremes: euphoria and depression.
Roughly 1% of the general population will develop bipolar disorder at some point in their lives. Genetics play a significant role; if you have blood relatives suffering from the condition, your risk increases. For instance, there is approximately a 12% chance that individuals with a sibling suffering from bipolar disorder will develop the same illness.
Definition of Mania [edit]
Mania is an endogenous psychosis. It rarely occurs in isolation; more often, it is paired with depression in a continuous cycle, termed manic-depressive psychosis, or bipolar psychosis. Mania typically manifests during youth and is characterized by disturbances in thought, affect, and motor skills. Thoughts rush in a sudden torrent, and moods are elevated without cause, leaving the patient radiating cheerfulness, happiness, or intense self-confidence. Eventually, however, the patient becomes exhausted.
Definition of Manic-Depressive Psychosis (Bipolar Disorder) [edit]
Manic-depressive psychosis (bipolar psychosis) is an endogenous mental illness defined by alternating periods of mania and depression. It is categorized among severe endogenous psychoses. The alternation between these phases is unpredictable; one might experience brief manic episodes followed by long depressive stretches, or vice versa. Crucially, it does not damage the patient's core personality, and between episodes, the individual appears perfectly healthy. It is slightly more prevalent in individuals with higher body mass. The clinical presentation depends entirely on the current phase—whether manic or depressive.
Symptoms [edit]
* Depressive symptoms * Manic symptoms * Cycles between these two distinct moods.
I just had a thought. There are so many successful and famous people living with some form of schizophrenia or manic depression, yet they hide it away like they're serial killers with AIDS using yellow and white pills. It’s just like when a husband cheats on his wife; the whole town knows, but officially, nobody knows a thing.