Delusions are false or erroneous beliefs that usually involve a misinterpretation of perceptions or experiences. Delusions may cause people to believe such things as:
- Someone is listening to their phone calls
- Their bodies or thoughts are being controlled by outside forces
- Ordinary events have special meaning for them
- They are especially important or have unusual powers
- People are trying to harm them
Delusions are typically diagnosed as one of the symptoms of psychotic disorders such as: dementia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse and some personality disorders. Schizophrenia involves delusions, hallucinations, disturbances in thinking or disorganized behaviour at some phase of the illness.
Delusions are different from hallucinations and paranoia. If you or someone you know is experiencing delusions, you should seek medical advice.
