Hi doctor,I am an 18 year old female. In the past year, I had been hearing several voices telling me to do certain things. Sometimes, I hear things that are not really present. Often, I feel like I am observing my own life as an outsider and this has been happening for two years. I also have trouble with sleeping. I do not fall asleep until around 1 AM and I wake up at around 6.30 AM. This has been happening for several years. Also, I just feel scared and paranoid that people are plotting against me. Please help.
Hi. I have read and completely understand that you have been facing a disturbed state of mind. 1. Often there is a genetic factor involved in the disorder such as if some in your family is suffering from similar kind of psychological problems. 2. Environmental factors such as negative life experiences during the past, family background, family communication and the role of a mother figure has been found to be associated with the development of this disorder. Consultation with a psychiatrist to suggest appropriate antipsychotic medicines. Observing one's own life as an outsider may be a part of dissociation or unrealization process. It needs to be differentiated from psychosis. Schizophrenia spectrum disorder (paranoid type). Generally a biopsychosocial approach is found to be the best treatment for a psychotic disorder. You need to observe the following with your specialist concern. 1. Medications are generally suggested after confirmation of the diagnosis. The medication is to balance the brain chemicals, which are released in excessive amount such as dopamine. A psychiatrist will prescribe the medicines to you. 2. Further, psychotherapy is must for such patients as a supportive treatment to get them back in life. Because, they might have left socializing, lack self-esteem, need support and guidance related to what has happened to them, to reduce the hygiene problem and develop coping skills such as checking the reality of the thoughts, personal dialogues, problem solving and communication skills. This is done through cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) provided by a psychologist or psychiatrist. 3. Support from family members is necessary to get the patient recover and complete the treatment. Family members can take counseling sessions as well, so as to get an idea about how to deal the client at home and among social spheres. Do not delay the treatment for psychotic disorders. It may get worse if remain untreated. For further doubts consult a psychologist counsellor online.--->