What is the definition of a "psychotic" episode?

A "psychotic" episode is characterized by a break from reality in thinking and/or perceptions. This typically involves symptoms such as delusions, where individuals hold strong beliefs that are not based in reality, and hallucinations, where they experience things that are not present, such as hearing voices or seeing things that others do not. This disruption in reality significantly affects the individual’s ability to function in daily life and can lead to distress for both the individual and those around them.

In the context of mental health, recognizing psychotic episodes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. These episodes can be part of various mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder with psychotic features. Understanding this definition aids in identifying these episodes when they occur, distinguishing them from other mental health states.