Delusions are false beliefs that are not based on reality and are not amenable to change in light of conflicting evidence. They are a symptom of either a medical, neurological, or mental disorder. Delusions can be difficult to distinguish from overvalued ideas, which are unreasonable ideas that a person holds, but the affected person has at least some level of doubt as to its truthfulness. A person with a delusion is absolutely convinced that the delusion is real.
Delusions can occur in several mental disorders, including psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, delusional disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. They may also indicate someone has a mood disorder, a personality disorder, dementia, or Parkinsons disease. There are several different types of delusions, including:
- Grandiose delusions: the person believes they are very talented, rich, or influential.
- Paranoid delusions: the person believes others want to harm them or are persecuting them.
- Somatic delusions: the person believes there is something wrong with a part of their body, or that part of them is missing.
- Reference delusions: the person believes other peoples thoughts or actions are directed towards them, or that special messages are being sent to them via the TV or radio.
- Bizarre delusions: the person believes in something that is physically impossible.
- Delusional jealousy: the person believes their partner is being unfaithful, even when thats impossible.
- Misidentification syndrome: the person believes someone they know has been replaced by an imposter who looks identical.
The presence of delusions is the most obvious sign of delusional disorder, which vary based on the type. Another characteristic of this condition is that the person often lacks self-awareness that their delusions are problematic. They’re unable to accept that their delusions are irrational or inaccurate, even if they recognize that other people would describe their delusions this way. Delusions can cause distress and interfere with day-to-day life, work, or relationships. Treatment for delusions may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
