Psychosis and schizophrenia are related but not the same. Psychosis is a symptom. Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that can include psychosis.

Understanding Psychosis

Psychosis means losing touch with reality. This may involve hearing voices (hallucinations) or believing things that aren’t true (delusions). Many conditions can cause psychosis—not just schizophrenia.

For example, bipolar disorder, severe depression, brain injuries, or drug use can trigger a psychotic episode. Even extreme stress or sleep deprivation may lead to temporary psychosis. So, psychosis alone doesn’t mean someone has schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia: A Broader Condition

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental illness. It includes episodes of psychosis, but also other symptoms like disorganized speech, flat emotions, social withdrawal, and trouble with daily functioning. To be diagnosed with schizophrenia, a person must show these signs for at least six months.

Not everyone with schizophrenia experiences constant psychosis. Symptoms often come in waves—periods of stability followed by episodes. Treatment with medication and therapy can help manage both psychosis and other schizophrenia symptoms.

In short, psychosis is a feature that can appear in many disorders. Schizophrenia is one specific disorder that includes psychosis as a core part—but also involves other lasting challenges. Knowing the difference helps reduce confusion and stigma. If someone shows signs of psychosis, a professional evaluation is essential to find the true cause and best treatment.