2024-11-05 15:40:00
During psychological decompensation, intense psychiatric symptoms appear suddenly (sometimes without psychiatric history). Such a phase can be very destabilizing for the patient and those around him. Better to go directly to the psychiatric emergency room.
Definition: what is a decompensation episode?
And episode ofpsychological decompensation corresponds to a phase of breakdown of psychological balance of a person. “More concretely, decompensation results in the sudden onset or worsening of a psychiatric illness. It can be any psychiatric disorder,” explains Doctor Guillaume Camelot, psychiatrist.
This expression can also refer to a relapse or reappearance of symptoms who had disappeared for a more or less long period. There are several types of decompensation depending on the pathology concerned: psychotic decompensationmanic, depressed, anxious, alcoholic…
What are the causes of psychological decompensation?
“The predisposition to mental illness depends on a conjunction of so-called ‘biopsychosocial’ factors . This means that the appearance of a psychiatric disorder is explained not only by hereditary factors, but also by the psychological state and the social environment in which the subject evolves” according to Doctor Guillaume Camelot. For example, schizophrenia is explained not only by a genetic vulnerability but also by the subject’s personal history which can in particular be marked by a strong emotional deprivation, physical or moral violence, or conversely, overprotection.
But it is not because certain factors predispose us to a psychiatric disorder that we will necessarily trigger it, and even less in a brutal way as in psychic decompensation. This term can also refer to the worsening or unexpected relapse of the disorder. Certain events can explain decompensation towards a psychiatric disorder in predisposed people such as:
and traumaand emotional shock ; and dangerous context or distressing; A lack of sleep ;the substance use : drugs, alcohol, medication…
At what age can you “decompensate”?
Psychological decompensation can occur at any time in the life of a predisposed individual, especially if they are going through traumatic events or if they consume substances. “The periods of hormonal upheavals important things like entering puberty, pregnancythe menopause in women and andropause in men are particularly at risk,” according to the expert.
Neurotic/psychotic decompensation: what’s the difference?
According to psychiatrist Jean Bergeret, our initial psychological structure exposes us to certain disorders in particular (and excludes others). A person who has a so-called “psychotic” structure has a risk of “decompensating” (in the event of a traumatic event in particular) and of developing a real psychotic disorder. In the same way, the decompensation of a person whose the structure is called “neurotic” exposes him to the development of one or more neuroses.
The neurosis and the psychosis are more or less obsolete generic terms. They are no longer used by psychiatry which refers to the classification of mental disorders in the DSM V. Nevertheless, Jean Bergeret’s theory remains valid: “there are many psychological structures and personality types which predispose to certain psychiatric illnesses in particular”, according to the expert.
Less than 3% of the population experiences psychotic decompensation
This theory is reassuring: only certain predisposed individuals (by biopsychosocial factors) could therefore decompensate towards a psychotic disorder and lose touch with reality. And for good reason, only 3% of the population experiences a psychotic episode during their lifetime. On the other hand, most ordinary people are more exposed to disorders that do not cause one to lose lucidity (equivalent to the old notion of neurosis) such as anxiety, obsessive or even depressive disorders…
What are the signs of psychological decompensation?
The symptoms of decompensation depend on the psychiatric illness triggered or exacerbated. In all cases, these manifestations are impressive et sudden onset. “Generally, patients consult a psychiatrist, a psychologist or even go directly to psychiatric emergencies,” according to Doctor Guillaume Camelot.
Psychotic decompensation episode: what symptoms?
The symptoms are those of a psychotic disorder that appears, worsens or relapses. It may be a persistent or brief delusional disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, etc. The person may manifest:
of the acute delirious flashes ; hallucinations; a disorganized thinking and speech ; and abnormal behavior and movements ; so-called “negative” symptoms: decrease in emotionsa poverty of speech…
Most of the time, psychotic decompensation occurs in people who have previously had psychotic episodes (relapse). “However, decompensation can constitute the inaugural phase of a psychotic disorder,” according to the practitioner. An episode of psychotic decompensation can also occur in people “borderline” or “limit state”.
Symptoms of anxious or depressive decompensation
This is the triggering, relapse or exacerbation of a anxiety disorderor depressed. The demonstrations are often very painful:
In case of anxious decompensation:anxiety attacks, anxiety, ruminations mentalesintrusive and obsessive ideas; In case of depressive decompensation: lack of enthusiasm, loss of interest, sadness, dark thoughts, suicide attempts…
Decompensation or prodromal phase: what is the difference?
It is necessary to distinguish psychological decompensation from phase prodromique. “The prodrome is defined by a first psychiatric episode of which the signs are too vague so that a diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder can be made straight away. The prodrome often occurs during childhood or adolescence. However, these warning symptoms do not mean an obligatory progression towards a psychiatric disorder,” according to Doctor Guillaume Camelot.
Conversely, decompensation is marked by obvious and brutal manifestations : “In psychiatry, this is what we call a bolt from the blue in a clear sky: some patients have never presented with a psychiatric disorder and symptoms appear overnight,” underlines the expert.
How to avoid psychological decompensation?
In order to prevent possible psychological decompensationit is better to maintain your bearings:
avoid boredom and isolation ; continue tohave a social lifeprofessional/academic and cultural; keep up to date with current events without focusing on negative events; have a healthy lifestyle et avoid lack of sleep ; NO SMOKING tobacco and even less cannabis ; avoid taking substances like the drug et alcohol ; have a psychiatric or psychological follow-up (especially for patients who have already experienced psychological decompensation or who have a diagnosed psychiatric disorder: work on the precipitating factors can then be undertaken in order to better avoid or control them).
How to treat psychological decompensation?
Facing an episode of psychological decompensationthe first reflex to have is toaccompany the person to the emergency room especially if there are psychotic symptoms (delusional ideas, hallucinations, etc.) or dark thoughts and risky behavior.
Often, a hospitalization in psychiatric unit is necessary, which allows the person concerned to regain psychological balance.
To begin with, drug treatment is prescribed to limit symptoms and be able to consider psychotherapy work. It may beanxiolyticsantidepressants and/orantipsychotics (neuroleptics).
If the patient has never been diagnosed, a diagnosis can be made. Sometimes doctors are unable to determine an accurate diagnosis immediately. In any case, a psychotherapy with a psychiatrist or psychologist seems essential. It may be analytical therapy or from cognitive and behavioral therapy (TCC).
Sources
Interview with Guillaume Camelot, psychiatrist.
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**Interview with Dr. Guillaume Camelot: Understanding Psychological Decompensation**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Camelot. Can you start by explaining what psychological decompensation really means?
**Dr. Camelot:** Thank you for having me. Psychological decompensation refers to a sudden breakdown of an individual’s mental stability, leading to a rapid onset or worsening of psychiatric symptoms. This can happen even in those without a prior psychiatric history, which makes it particularly concerning.
**Interviewer:** What are the common signs that someone is experiencing a decompensation episode?
**Dr. Camelot:** The signs can vary depending on the type of psychiatric disorder involved. Generally, these symptoms are sudden and severe. For instance, in a psychotic decompensation, a person might experience hallucinations, disorganized thinking, or unusual behaviors. In anxiety or depressive decompensation, symptoms might include panic attacks, overwhelming sadness, or even suicidal thoughts.
**Interviewer:** What do you think triggers these episodes?
**Dr. Camelot:** Decompensation can be triggered by a variety of biopsychosocial factors. Stressful life events, trauma, substance abuse, lack of sleep, and significant hormonal changes can all play a role. It’s essential to recognize that not everyone with predisposed factors will experience decompensation; it’s often the combination of circumstances that precipitates an episode.
**Interviewer:** Is decompensation something that can happen at any age?
**Dr. Camelot:** Yes, it can occur at any age, particularly during phases of significant life changes or stress, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. These periods are often times of hormonal upheaval, increasing the risk for decompensation in those predisposed.
**Interviewer:** Many people might not know when to seek help. What advice would you give to someone observing these symptoms in themselves or a loved one?
**Dr. Camelot:** If you notice sudden changes in behavior, mood, or thoughts—especially if they are severe—it’s crucial to seek help immediately. Visiting a psychiatric emergency room is recommended, as timely intervention can be life-saving. The sooner someone receives support, the better the chance of stabilization and recovery.
**Interviewer:** what can individuals do to potentially prevent psychological decompensation?
**Dr. Camelot:** Maintaining a balanced lifestyle is key. This includes staying socially engaged, actively participating in hobbies, keeping informed without fixating on negative news, ensuring a healthy sleep schedule, and avoiding substances like alcohol or drugs. It’s about fostering a supportive environment and self-care practices to safeguard mental health.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Camelot, for shedding light on this important topic. Your insights are invaluable to anyone looking to understand psychological decompensation better.
**Dr. Camelot:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this. Awareness and education are vital in mental health.
