Ask HN: Did anyone else lose their marbles?

Article summary

The author shares their experience of having a psychotic break, which led to a two-year gap in their life and career. They describe wandering in the woods, crying, and seeing non-existent fossils, eventually stopping work and neglecting responsibilities. The author is now functional and back in the industry but wonders if others have had similar secret breakdowns. The author seeks to understand if their experience is an outlier or a common occurrence.

Main themes

• Psychotic episodes
• Mental health
• Stress and burnout
• Medication and therapy
• Self-help and personal growth
• Recovery and support

What commenters say

• Some people experience psychotic episodes due to stress, sleep deprivation, or medication, which can lead to delusions and hallucinations.
• Taking stimulants like Dexedrine can contribute to psychosis, especially when combined with sleep deprivation.
• Mental health issues like burnout, depression, and psychosis can be triggered by various factors, including work pressure, family problems, and self-help books with unhelpful ideas.
• Getting professional help, talking to trusted people, and focusing on day-to-day plans can be beneficial for recovery, but medication and therapy may not work for everyone.
• Some individuals respond well to determining the root cause of their issues, while others benefit from challenging intrusive thoughts and being aware of their emotions.
• Lyme disease and other health conditions can also contribute to psychotic episodes, and it's essential to rule out underlying medical issues.
• Self-blame and guilt can be significant obstacles to recovery, and it's crucial to practice self-compassion and seek support from loved ones.
• Mental health is a serious issue that can affect anyone, and prioritizing one's own well-being is essential to prevent breakdowns and maintain overall health.