Lysergic psychoma and mental automatism: a clinical exploration of synthetic psychosis.

The increasing prevalence of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS) presents a significant challenge for both diagnosis and treatment, particularly due to the complex psychotic states they can induce. This paper explores the concept of lysergic psychoma, rooted in Bonhoeffer's exogenous psychosis model, and its relevance to modern substance-induced psychoses. Lysergic psychoma, characterized by vivid hallucinations, delusional thinking, and somatoesthetic disturbances, represents a critical stage where temporary psychotic episodes risk evolving into chronic psychosis. This condition is closely linked with mental automatism, a phenomenon initially described by De Clérambault, where patients experience uncontrollable, parasitic thoughts and sensations that disrupt normal cognitive functions. The study underscores the importance of recognizing mental automatism in the progression of substance-induced psychosis, particularly as NPS use continues to rise. It challenges traditional distinctions between endogenous and exogenous psychosis, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of the interaction between genetic predisposition, environmental stressors, and the neurobiological impacts of psychoactive substances. This work calls for refined diagnostic criteria and targeted interventions to address the growing mental health crisis associated with NPS use. Emphasizing early intervention and prevention, particularly among adolescents, is critical in mitigating the risks of these emerging psychotic disorders. Integrating historical perspectives with contemporary research, this study offers new insights into the psychopathological processes underlying substance-induced psychoses, providing valuable frameworks for clinical practice and future research.