When someone is experiencing psychosis, it’s crucial to avoid judgmental language, dismissive comments, or challenging their delusions directly. Instead, focus on offering calm reassurance, validating their feelings, and encouraging them to seek professional help. Your words can significantly impact their experience and safety.
What Not to Say When Someone is Experiencing Psychosis
Encountering someone in a psychotic state can be disorienting and challenging. It’s natural to want to help, but knowing what not to say is as important as knowing what to do. Your words can either escalate their distress or help de-escalate the situation. This guide will help you navigate these difficult conversations with empathy and effectiveness.
Avoid Dismissing or Invalidating Their Experiences
One of the most common and harmful mistakes is to dismiss or invalidate what the person is experiencing. Their reality, though different from yours, is very real to them. Telling them they are "just imagining things" or "being silly" will not help.
- Don’t say: "That’s not real," "You’re making it up," or "Just snap out of it."
- Why it’s harmful: These phrases can make the person feel misunderstood, isolated, and ashamed. It can also erode trust, making them less likely to confide in you or accept help.
Refrain from Arguing About Delusions or Hallucinations
Challenging the content of their delusions or hallucinations is rarely productive. Psychotic experiences are often deeply ingrained and resistant to logical argument. Trying to debate the reality of what they are seeing or believing can lead to frustration and agitation for both of you.
- Don’t say: "There’s no one there," "That didn’t happen," or "You’re wrong about that."
- Why it’s harmful: This can be perceived as an attack on their reality. It may cause them to become defensive, angry, or even more entrenched in their beliefs.
Steer Clear of Judgmental or Stigmatizing Language
Mental health conditions, including psychosis, carry significant stigma. Using judgmental language reinforces this stigma and can be deeply hurtful. Avoid language that implies they are "crazy," "dangerous," or "weak."
- Don’t say: "You’re acting crazy," "What’s wrong with you?" or "You need to be locked up."
- Why it’s harmful: This type of language is dehumanizing and shaming. It can increase their anxiety and make them feel like a burden.
Don’t Make Promises You Can’t Keep
In an effort to comfort, people sometimes make promises they cannot fulfill. This can include guaranteeing that their symptoms will disappear or that everything will be okay immediately. When these promises are broken, it can lead to further distress and loss of trust.
- Don’t say: "I promise this will stop soon," or "Everything will be fine by tomorrow."
- Why it’s harmful: Unmet promises can lead to disappointment and a feeling of betrayal. It’s better to focus on realistic support and professional help.
Avoid Overwhelming Them with Questions
While you want to understand, bombarding someone experiencing psychosis with too many questions can be overwhelming. They may struggle to process information or articulate their thoughts clearly. Keep your communication simple and direct.
- Don’t say: Rapid-fire questions about what they are seeing, hearing, or believing.
- Why it’s harmful: This can increase their anxiety and confusion. It may make it harder for them to focus on what is important, like their safety.
What You Should Say and Do
Knowing what to avoid is the first step. Now, let’s focus on constructive approaches. The goal is to create a safe, supportive environment.
Offer Calm Reassurance and Validation
Let the person know that you are there for them and that you care. Validate their feelings, even if you don’t agree with the content of their experience. Phrases that acknowledge their distress can be very helpful.
- Do say: "I can see you’re feeling scared," "This sounds really difficult for you," or "I’m here with you."
- Why it helps: This shows empathy and understanding. It can help reduce their feelings of isolation and fear.
Speak Calmly and Clearly
Maintain a calm and steady tone of voice. Speak in short, simple sentences. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that could startle them. Your demeanor can significantly influence their emotional state.
- Do say: "Let’s sit down for a moment," or "Can I get you some water?"
- Why it helps: A calm presence can be grounding. Clear communication ensures they can process what you are saying without added confusion.
Encourage Professional Help
The most important step is to connect the person with mental health professionals. Encourage them to speak with a doctor, therapist, or crisis hotline. If they are unwilling, you may need to contact a crisis team or emergency services yourself.
- Do say: "It sounds like you’re going through a lot. Have you considered talking to a doctor or therapist?" or "There are people who can help you feel better."
- Why it helps: Professionals are trained to manage psychotic episodes and provide appropriate treatment. This is the most effective way to ensure their long-term well-being.
Focus on Safety
Your primary concern should be the safety of the individual and those around them. If you believe there is an immediate risk of harm to themselves or others, do not hesitate to call emergency services.
- Do say: (If necessary) "I need to call for some help to make sure everyone is safe."
- Why it helps: This prioritizes well-being. It’s a responsible action when immediate danger is present.
People Also Ask
### What is the best way to approach someone experiencing psychosis?
Approach them calmly and from the front, making sure they can see you. Speak in a soft, reassuring tone. Avoid sudden movements or direct confrontation. Your goal is to be a non-threatening presence that can offer support and encourage them to seek help.
### Should I try to reason with someone who is delusional?
It is generally not advisable to try and reason with someone about their delusions. Arguing or trying to disprove their beliefs can increase their agitation and make them feel misunderstood. Instead, acknowledge their feelings without agreeing with the delusion itself.
### How can I help someone who is hallucinating?
If someone is hallucinating, try to remain calm and reassure them that you are there. Ask them what they are experiencing and validate their feelings of fear or distress. Gently guide them away from any perceived danger and encourage them to seek professional medical attention.
### When should I call for emergency help?
Call emergency services (like 911 or your local equivalent) if the person is a danger to themselves or others, or if they are unable to care for their basic needs. This includes expressing suicidal thoughts