Guidelines for the management of psychosis in the context of mood disorders

Psychotic episodes occur in a substantial proportion of patients suffering from major mood disorders (both unipolar and bipolar) at some point in their lives. The nature of these episodes is less well understood than the more common, non-psychotic periods of illness and hence their management is also less sophisticated. This is a concern because the risk of suicide is particularly high in this subtype of mood disorder and comorbidity is far more common. In some cases psychotic symptoms may be signs of a comorbid illness but the relationship of psychotic mood to other forms of psychosis and in particular its interactions with schizophrenia is poorly understood. Therefore, our targeted review draws upon extant research and our combined experience to provide clinical context and a framework for the management of these disorders in real-world practice - taking into consideration both biological and psychological interventions.

Automated summary

Psychotic episodes occur in a significant proportion of patients with major mood disorders, and their nature and management are less understood compared to non-psychotic periods of illness. This is concerning due to the higher risk of suicide and comorbidity in this subtype of mood disorder. The relationship between psychotic mood and other forms of psychosis, particularly schizophrenia, remains poorly understood. Therefore, our targeted review aims to provide clinical context and a framework for managing these disorders in real-world practice, considering both biological and psychological interventions.