In Liberia, someone living with psychosis would be considered crazy or demon-possessed, which not long ago was the same in the West.
I was once told by my professor at university that talking to myself was ok, but when I started answering back, I was in serious trouble, to which I laughed, but this is not a laughing matter.
Three main symptoms of psychosis, which include conditions such as schizophrenia and mood disorders, are hallucinations, delusions and thought disorders.
Hallucinations are altered reality where a person’s smell, taste and what they hear and see is not actually there or real. They can hear voices or see people and things no one sees.
Delusions are when they have irrational and unusual beliefs about themselves and the world.
Thought disorders include disrupted thought patterns and confusion with disturbed rapid and constant speech.
The suffering and pain experienced by individuals due to the lack of knowledge and awareness are heartbreaking. Simple, explainable and treatable issues become catastrophic and life-changing in places like Liberia, where there is very little or no help. One can attempt to criticise the government and the system, but if those in power lack knowledge and awareness, how can they help the citizens who depend on them?
In the West, help is available, but imagine a place which exists in borderline poverty, with no adequate mental health facilities or programs.
What happens to those affected?
Many lives become disrupted, and families are torn apart, with loved ones sent off to treatment facilities or institutions (if available). The stigma attached is one of the biggest problems, leaving the individuals, their relatives and friends living in constant fear and isolation and possibly no employability with lives in chaos.
People are quick to shun and ridicule what they do not know or understand, sometimes due to fear. Corrupt religious and spiritual leaders exploit the families affected, creating even more doubt, distrust, fear and uncertainties in communities.
Little ways to help someone close to you with mental health conditions and are displaying psychotic behaviours:
Firstly, try not to criticise or write them off.
Do not dismiss or argue what they are experiencing is unreal.
Do not take anything personally; do not be alarmed, horrified or show signs of embarrassment.
Be considered and pretend you also see what they see, giving reassurance and comfort.
Most importantly, help them seek professional help.
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