Psychotic depression requires immediate medical attention

Psychotic depression. This can take the form of false beliefs (delusions) or detecting something that isn't really there (hallucination). Often they become paranoid or come to believe in what is called thought insertion and thought broadcasting.

Although there are no obvious risk factors, a family history of psychotic illness increases the risk of this condition. Researchers aren't exactly sure what causes this illness, but it has been frequently associated with high levels of a steroid called cortisol in the blood, produced by the adrenal glands. Large amounts of cortisol are released during times or conditions of stress.

The symptoms are a combination of symptoms of depression and psychosis. When suffering from this illness, life is not seen in its reality. During these times they feel persecuted and may be firmly convinced that there are people to harm or punish them. For some people there could be voices criticizing them, telling them that they are worthless and full of sin which can lead to suicidal tendencies.

This illness requires immediate medical attention to prevent self-harm or harm to others. Other symptoms that occur more commonly include agitation, anxiety, insomnia, lethargy digestive disorders, etc.

Treatment requires longer hospitalization and follow-up by a professional health consultant. Combinations of tricyclic antidepressants and antipsychotic medications have been most effective in easing symptoms. Lithium is sometimes recommended as an additional combination. Electroconvulsive therapy used widely for other forms of depression, though effective, is considered a second line of therapy.

Alternative" therapies, including herbal remedies, are becoming more and more popular. The most commonly used alternative medicine is Hypericum, an extract of a weedy plant called Hypericum Perforatum.

Treatment is very effective for psychotic depression and people are able to recover, usually within a year, but continual medical follow-up may be necessary. Ongoing treatment and monitoring give the patient the best chance of recovery and doing well on an ongoing basis. Generally, the depressive symptoms have a much higher rate of recurrence than the psychotic symptoms.

Also read our article about Treatment for Depression