Topic 6: Psychosis - Navigating the Disturbed Mind Flashcards
Dopamine hypothesis
The theory that an excess of dopamine activity contributes to the positive symptoms of psychosis
Example: Hallucinations
Glutamate hypothesis
The theory that dysfunction in glutamate signaling contributes to the negative and cognitive symptoms of psychosis
Example: Apathy
Enlarged ventricles
Fluid-filled spaces in the brain that may be enlarged in schizophrenia
Example: Brain imaging findings
Reduced gray matter
Thinning of the brain’s outer layer in certain regions, observed in schizophrenia
Example: Structural brain changes
Hypofrontality
Decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex, associated with impaired executive functions in schizophrenia
Typical antipsychotics
Older antipsychotic medications with a higher risk of side effects
Atypical antipsychotics
Newer antipsychotic medications with a broader spectrum of action and generally fewer side effects
Cognitive remediation
Therapy focused on enhancing cognitive skills in individuals with psychosis
Social skills training
Therapy aimed at improving communication and interaction skills in individuals with psychosis
Early intervention
Comprehensive treatment and support initiated as soon as possible after the onset of psychosis
Relapse prevention
Strategies to maintain stability and prevent future psychotic episodes
Psychosis
A mental state characterized by a loss of contact with reality, often involving hallucinations and delusions
Schizophrenia
A chronic mental illness characterized by psychosis, disorganized thinking, and impaired social functioning
Positive symptoms
Symptoms that are added to normal experience, such as hallucinations and delusions
Negative symptoms
Symptoms that represent a loss or decrease in normal function, such as apathy and social withdrawal
