What is Psychosis?

The Center for Health Care Services - Bexar County

This educational animation provides a clear, compassionate, and scientifically grounded introduction to psychosis, a condition affecting millions of people. It opens with a first-person simulation of a psychotic episode in a restaurant setting, helping viewers build empathy by experiencing the confusion and fear associated with auditory and visual hallucinations. The video transitions from this narrative hook into hard data, explaining that psychosis typically first occurs between ages 15 and 30 and affects a diverse range of people across all income and education levels. The content systematically breaks down the primary symptoms of psychosis, including visual hallucinations (seeing shapes or shadows), auditory hallucinations (hearing voices), disorganized thinking, and delusions (believing in special powers or surveillance). Crucially, the video addresses and dismantles harmful stigmas, clarifying that individuals with psychosis are rarely dangerous or "crazy," but rather withdrawn, confused, and frightened. It emphasizes that experiences are unique to each individual. For educators, this video is a vital tool for mental health literacy units in high school and college settings. It serves as an excellent primer for psychology classes or health curriculum, providing a safe entry point into a complex topic. By focusing on early intervention and the reality of recovery through therapy and medication, the video empowers students to recognize signs in themselves or peers and seek help, moving the conversation from fear to understanding and action.