In the vast majority of instances, DSM defines psychotic disorders as manifesting with symptoms that, by definition, fly in the face of the physical constraints of reality. It is my opinion that the point of view Dr. Henry A. Nasrallah presents is boundless (“Are some nonpsychotic psychiatric disorders actually psychotic?” From the Editor, Current Psychiatry, November 2010, p. 16-19). Dr. Nasrallah’s hypothesis easily could extend to encompass circumstances such as over-reacting to being slighted by a friend or being offended by an inattentive store clerk, which may cause one to see things through (the distortion of) “grey (or perhaps rose) colored glasses. “ Although with time such perceptions may grow to take on psychotic proportions, this is a slippery slope upon which one must tread carefully, being vigilant not to fall prey to “pathologizing” thoughts and feelings associated with normal human angst.
Karen Fox, MD
Adult and Child Psychiatrist
The Upstate’s Golden Corner of Psychiatry
Seneca, SC