Treating Psychosis with CBT, Meditation and Herbal Remedies

Psychosis is a mental health condition characterised by a disconnection from reality. Individuals experiencing psychosis may have hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (strongly held false beliefs), or disorganised thinking. It can occur as part of conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Narcissistic Behaviour disorder , or severe depression, or it may arise due to substance abuse (Cocaine, Weed, Crystal Meth, GHB and so on) or various medical conditions. Treatment often involves a combination of medication, talk therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Treatment with CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy):

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. When treating psychosis, CBT aims to help the individual:

Reality testing: By challenging and reinterpreting delusions and hallucinations, CBT can help the individual gain a clearer perspective on what’s real and what isn’t.

Coping strategies: CBT can teach coping mechanisms to deal with distressing symptoms, such as grounding techniques, relaxation exercises, and reframing negative thoughts.

Relapse prevention: By addressing early warning signs of psychosis, CBT can help individuals manage their mental health to prevent future episodes.

Psychoeducation: Educating individuals about psychosis, its symptoms, and treatment options can help them feel more empowered and reduce feelings of isolation or confusion.

Meditation:

Meditation can be a complementary treatment for psychosis by promoting relaxation and mindfulness. Regular practice may help individuals manage stress and anxiety, which can often exacerbate psychotic symptoms. Some forms of meditation may be particularly helpful:

Mindfulness meditation: Focusing on the present moment can reduce rumination, enhance self-awareness, and provide a sense of control.

Guided imagery: This technique involves imagining a peaceful place or scenario, which can help distract from disturbing thoughts or sensations associated with psychosis.

Breathing exercises: Slow, deep breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to calm the mind and reduce emotional reactivity.

However, meditation should be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment, especially if psychosis is severe. It’s important to approach it with guidance from a mental health professional to ensure safety.

Herbal Medicines:

There are herbal treatments which complement traditional Allopathic therapies, Some herbal remedies have been suggested to support mental health, but their effectiveness can vary depending on the quality and strength of the herbal product, and they should be used under medical supervision. Some options include:

Bacopa Monnieri: Often used in Ayurvedic medicine, this herb is believed to have cognitive-enhancing properties and may help reduce anxiety and stress, potentially benefiting individuals with psychosis.

Lavender: Known for its calming effects, lavender can be used in essential oil form or as a tea to reduce anxiety, which may, in turn, alleviate some stress-related symptoms of psychosis.

Ashwagandha: This Adaptogenic herb is thought to help manage stress and improve overall mental health. It may assist individuals with psychosis in coping with the emotional challenges of the condition.

St John’s Wort: Commonly used to treat mild to moderate depression, this herb has mood-lifting properties. However, it can interact with certain medications, so it's crucial to consult a doctor before using it, especially in individuals with psychosis.

It’s essential to note that herbal medicines may interact with other medications, so it's important for anyone with psychosis to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any herbal remedies. As a sidenote St john's Wort is contra-indicated with all allopathic medications due to its clearing effect on the liver.

Other lesser know herbs include: Hops, Rhodiola, Paeonia, Berberis aquifolium, Morcus alba, Chamomile, Rauwolfia serpentina, Skullcap, Avena sativa, Panax Ginseng and Verbena officinalis. The above mentioned Herbs lower Dopamine levels which is a very important factor when designing a treatment plan for a Patient.

Conclusion:

A holistic treatment plan for psychosis may involve a combination of CBT, meditation, and herbal remedies, alongside medication prescribed by a healthcare professional. Each approach addresses different aspects of the condition, and together they can help manage symptoms, improve coping skills, and enhance overall well-being. However, it's essential that treatment is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and monitored closely by a healthcare professional and at no point should a Patient stop any medication without consulting a Healthcare Professional first.

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