If you’ve been struggling with alcohol addiction and have recently started experiencing hallucinations or delusions, you’re not alone, and you’re probably wondering what’s going on. Is it possible that alcohol abuse is causing these frightening symptoms? The short answer is yes. There is a direct connection between alcohol and psychosis, and understanding this link can help you take the first steps toward recovery and healing. At Discover Recovery, we specialize in treating individuals with dual diagnosis, addressing both substance use disorders and underlying mental health conditions. Our compassionate and professional approach ensures you receive comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs.
What is psychosis?
Psychosis is a mental health condition where a person loses touch with reality. This can show up as:
- Hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t there)
- Delusions (false beliefs, often paranoid or grandiose)
- Disorganized thinking or speech
- Trouble distinguishing what’s real from what’s not
Various factors, including mental health issues like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder can cause psychosis. However, substance use—especially heavy alcohol use—can also trigger these symptoms.
Can alcohol cause psychosis?
Alcohol can absolutely cause psychosis, a condition known as alcohol-induced psychosis. This can happen in several scenarios, such as during heavy drinking episodes, withdrawal from alcohol after prolonged use, or even as a result of long-term alcohol abuse damaging the brain. Symptoms can include hallucinations, delusions, and confusion, and they can vary in duration and severity depending on the individual and their alcohol consumption habits. This can occur in the following scenarios:
Acute intoxication
In rare cases, consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period can lead to a brief psychotic episode. This is more likely to occur when alcohol is combined with other substances, such as drugs, which can amplify its effects and further disrupt brain function. These episodes are typically temporary but can be distressing and may require medical attention to ensure the individual’s safety and recovery.
Alcohol withdrawal
One of the most dangerous times for alcohol-related psychosis is during withdrawal. When someone with alcohol dependence stops drinking abruptly, their brain can go into overdrive, leading to hallucinations and delusions. This is often referred to as alcohol withdrawal delirium or delirium tremens (DTs).
Chronic alcohol use
Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to significant damage to brain chemistry and structure, disrupting the balance of neurotransmitters and impairing cognitive function. Over time, this damage can increase the risk of developing psychosis. Even in the absence of withdrawal symptoms, chronic alcohol use may result in persistent mental health issues, including memory problems, mood disturbances, and difficulty with decision-making or problem-solving.
How long does alcohol-induced psychosis last?
The duration of alcohol-induced psychosis symptoms can vary depending on the person and the situation. Withdrawal-related psychosis may last a few days and typically improves with medical treatment. Chronic psychosis resulting from long-term alcohol abuse may persist even after someone stops drinking and may require long-term psychiatric care. In some cases, symptoms may clear up entirely once sobriety is achieved, while others might need ongoing support. It’s crucial to seek medical help if you or someone you love is experiencing these symptoms. Psychosis is serious—and potentially life-threatening—but it is treatable.
Understanding your treatment options and getting help
If you’re facing both alcohol addiction and psychotic symptoms, it’s important to find a treatment program that addresses both issues. This is where our dual diagnosis treatment center in Washington State comes in. The program is designed to treat both substance use and mental health conditions at the same time, offering:
- Medical detox
- Psychiatric evaluation and medication if needed
- Therapy for trauma, addiction, and mental health
- Ongoing support for relapse prevention
At Discover Recovery, we understand how frightening and isolating these experiences can be. However, you don’t have to figure this out on your own. With the proper care, you can heal your mind and body and reclaim your life.
Contact Discover Recovery for the help you need now
If you’re experiencing hallucinations or delusions, and you drink regularly, don’t ignore the signs. Help is available; all you need to do is reach out. Call 866.719.2173 or connect with us online for compassionate care and effective support.