What causes paranoia?
The big cause is changes in brain chemistry. Lack of sleep also plays a big part. We also don't know why some people have serious problems with paranoia and others never do. It does seem that your chances of experiencing paranoia increase the longer you use.
What is psychosis?
Psychosis usually means an episode during which a person experiences delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized thoughts and behaviors. Episodes can come on suddenly or psychotic behavior can linger in mild up and down cycles. There is a BIG difference between regular psychosis and crystal-caused psychosis. The causes of psychosis aren't very clear. But the psychosis or extreme paranoia often caused by crystal will usually stop once the drug use stops. Treating clinical psychosis usually requires medication and behavioral therapy. Psychosis should only be diagnosed by a mental health professional.
If I hear voices, am I schizophrenic?
There is also a big difference between drug paranoia and schizophrenia. If your voices go away when you come down, you probably don't have schizophrenia. There are other differences too, and there is more to schizophrenia than just hearing voices. It is a complex mental disorder that should only be diagnosed by a mental health professional.
How can I get rid of paranoia?
The only real way to get rid of paranoia when you're high is to stop getting high. You may find that the voices or the "strange people following me" will stop once you take a break or stop using completely. This recovery happens quickly for some people. Other users might have paranoia "flashbacks" even after long periods of abstinence (often triggered by high stress).
If you can't stop using, even for a little while, try these tips offered by other users:
- Only use with people you know AND trust.
- Only use in places where you feel safe.
- Don't get "too high" or stay up too long. Get some sleep!
- Don't wander the streets if you feel paranoid. You may react in strange ways that will only draw unwanted attention (like the cops) to yourself.
- Know your product. Some recipes contain chemicals that often cause "weirder" reactions in some people.
