Major depression with psychotic features
Alternative Names
Psychotic depression; Delusional depressionSymptoms
This condition occurs when a depressed person loses touch with reality and hallucinates or has delusions. The symptoms of psychotic depression are a combination of symptoms of depression and psychosis.
The content of the delusions and hallucinations can be consistent with depression. For example, some people hear voices criticizing them, telling them that they are not good enough or evil, or telling them that they don't deserve to live and should kill themselves. Psychotic depression requires immediate medical attention to prevent self-harm or harm to others.
Exams and Tests
Diagnosis involves:
- Psychiatric evaluation
- Physical examination
- Laboratory tests
The health care provider should rule out other medical conditions that can cause the same symptoms (such as reactions to certain drugs).
References
International early psychosis association writing group. International clinical practice guidelines for early psychosis. Br J Psychiatry, 2005;187:s120-s124.
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