Psychosis: Reducing Stigma Through Biology
Briefly

Psychosis is often misunderstood, portrayed negatively, and linked with stigma. Historically, conditions like schizophrenia were thought to stem from poor parenting or emotional repression. However, neuroscience now reveals psychosis as primarily a biological process influenced by genetics and various environmental factors. This modern understanding encourages compassion instead of fear, proposing that psychosis is akin to other symptoms like a fever. Initially, the dopamine hypothesis was pivotal in explaining psychotic symptoms, but recent research has unearthed multiple neurotransmitter systems such as glutamate and serotonin that also play critical roles in cognitive functioning.
Psychosis is often portrayed as an enigma, a condition shrouded in fear and misunderstanding, reinforcing misconceptions about those affected.
Reframing psychosis in biological terms can reduce stigma and foster compassion, integrating genetics, neurodevelopment, and environment.
The dopamine hypothesis suggested that dysregulation in dopamine pathways contributed to symptoms like hallucinations, yet ongoing research reveals other neurotransmitter systems involved.
Understanding psychosis not merely as a symptom, but as a brain-based condition allows for a holistic approach to treatment and understanding.
Read at Psychology Today
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