Surprising Psychosis Treatment That Works: Learning to Live With the Voices in Your Head
For people suffering from psychosis, hearing voices that aren’t there can be a constant, maddening presence. Traditional treatments for psychosis, such as medication and therapy, have shown limited success in reducing symptoms, leaving many patients struggling to cope with the disturbing thoughts and emotions that come with this debilitating mental health condition.
But a new approach is gaining attention – and promising results – by focusing on the individual’s unique experiences and strengths rather than simply trying to suppress or eliminate them. This unorthodox method was developed by Dr. Harry Barraclough, a UK-based psychologist who has treated over 1,000 patients with psychosis and has achieved a remarkable 90% success rate in reducing symptoms.
By adopting a strengths-based approach, Dr. Barraclough encourages patients to engage with their inner world, rather than trying to shut it out. This involves helping individuals develop a deeper understanding of the hidden meanings and messages behind the voices, and learning to communicate with them in a way that is empowering, rather than frightening.
One patient, Emma, who had been experiencing psychosis for over a decade, was forced to re-evaluate her entire life, including her relationships, job, and living situation. Through Dr. Barraclough’s guidance, Emma discovered that the voices were trying to tell her something – that she wasn’t living the life she truly wanted, and that she had the power to change it. With this newfound understanding, Emma was able to re-engage with activities she loved, rebuild her social connections, and find a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
In another case, a patient named Chris, who had been experiencing auditory hallucinations since childhood, learned to see the voices as a “fire” that needed to be tended. This metaphor allowed him to take control of the voices and channel them into creative pursuits, such as music and art. Chris no longer feels overwhelmed by the voices, and has even started a successful music therapy program to help others cope with similar struggles.
While this approach may not be for everyone, its success rate speaks to the potential for a more compassionate and empowering way of treating psychosis. By acknowledging the presence of the voices, rather than trying to suppress or eliminate them, individuals can begin to heal and move forward, rather than being stuck in a cycle of fear and shame. As Dr. Barraclough’s patients have discovered, living with the voices can become a powerful tool for growth, self-discovery, and transformation.