What are psychotic episodes?

A psychotic episode is like when your brain goes on a wild adventure and you see or feel things that aren't really there.

Imagine you're playing with your favorite toy, and all of a sudden, it starts talking to you. You think it's just being silly, but then the walls start moving, and your favorite blanket begins to whisper secrets. That’s kind of what happens during a psychotic episode, your brain is having an exciting trip where it feels like everything around you is changing or acting strange.

Sometimes, when your imagination gets really big, it can feel like the real world has changed. You might think you're talking to a friend who's not there, or you could believe that your favorite cartoon character is hiding under your bed. This is what happens during a psychotic episode, your brain is having fun with its own creativity, but it feels very real to you.

A psychotic episode can feel like being in the middle of the biggest daydream ever. You might hear voices or see things that no one else can. But even though it's wild and fun, it’s just your brain having an adventure, and sometimes, it needs a little help to go back to normal again.