The Resurgence of Exogenous Psychosis: A Phenomenological Examination of Substance-Induced Psychopathology.

Substance-induced psychosis, especially from cannabis and cocaine, can transition to persistent psychosis, with cannabis posing a particularly high risk. Differences exist between substance-induced and primary psychotic disorders, and external factors play a key role. A phenomenological perspective describes this as a disruption in perception, altering time and space and causing hallucinations. The concept of a "twilight state" of consciousness helps explain the shift from substance use to psychosis, affecting spatiality, intersubjectivity, and temporality. This challenges standard diagnostic models and calls for a more nuanced understanding of how substances trigger psychotic experiences.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The psychopathological manifestations associated with substance use, including induced psychotic experiences, are increasingly relevant but not well-understood within the medical community. Novel psychoactive substances and potentiated old compounds like cannabis and cocaine have emerged as a global concern, especially among adolescents and young adults. Transition rates from substance-induced psychosis (SIP) to persistent psychosis are significant, particularly in cases of cannabis-induced psychosis. Scientific inquiry into induced psychotic phenomena has revealed differences between SIP and primary psychotic disorders, highlighting the risk factors associated with each. The concept of exogenous psychosis, including its toxic variant known as lysergic psychoma, provides valuable insights into the role of external factors in psychosis development. A phenomenological approach characterizes this disruption in perception as a shift in temporal and spatial dimensions, leading to auditory and visual hallucinations. The "twilight state" of consciousness plays a crucial role in the transition from substance use to psychosis, with implications for spatiality, intersubjectivity, and temporality. This complex path to psychosis challenges traditional diagnostic models and underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of substance-induced psychopathological experiences.