Delusions are often reinforced by misinterpreting events.
Many also involve some level ofparanoia.
Delusions are common symptoms of somepsychotic disorders.
Verywell / Alison Czinkota
Delusions vs. Hallucinations
While they both involve distortions of reality, there aredifferences between delusions and hallucinations.
In hallucinations, the distortion exists in the senses, such as in their sense of hearing or touch.
It’s also important to recognize that not all delusions are the same.
The nature of the delusional symptoms may play a central role in the diagnosis.
Conversely, in schizophrenia, delusions may be bizarre and not rooted in reality.
Types of Delusions
Several different types of delusions can characterize the diagnosis of a delusional disorder.
Jealous Delusions
Individuals with jealous delusions might believe that their partners are unfaithful.
For instance, someone who believes there are parasites living inside their body could be suffering from somatic delusions.
Conditions With Delusional Symptoms
Delusions may be symptoms of a mental health issue or brain disorder.
Lab tests may also be ordered to rule out any physical illnesses that might be causing the delusions.
Mental health professionals can use a variety of psychological assessments to learn more about the person’s symptoms.
Treatment for Delusions
It’s essential for anyone experiencing delusional thinking to seek professional help.
By definition, a person who is having delusions believes their experience to be fact.
Treatment for delusions often includes a combination of medication and therapy.
Family therapyis often part of the treatment for delusions as well.
Coping With Delusions
Managing the environment can help someone with delusions.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Final Thoughts
Most disorders that involve delusions are treatable.
This enables people with these delusional beliefs to live healthy, productive lives with relatively few symptoms.
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