Can Delusions Be Cured?
Delusions are defined as “strongly held beliefs that are not amenable to logic or persuasion and that are out of keeping with their holder’s background. Although they need not necessarily be false, the process by which they are arrived at is usually bizarre and illogical.
Not everyone who has delusions has a mental illness. Some people in society have very strong and unusual ideas. But when these ideas become distressing or interfere with day-to-day life, work or relationships, they can be the sign of a mental illness that needs professional treatment.
Types of Delusions
Erotomanic Delusions
Individuals believe that a person—usually with a higher social standing—is in love with them.
Grandiose Delusions
Individuals believe that they have extraordinary talent, fame, wealth, or power—despite a lack of evidence.
Persecutory Delusions
Individuals believe that they are being spied on, drugged, followed, slandered, cheated on, or somehow mistreated.
Jealous Delusions
Individuals might believe that their partners are unfaithful. For instance, someone with this type of delusion might believe their partner is meeting their lover every time they use the restroom in public settings.
Somatic Delusions
Individuals believe that they are experiencing physical sensations or bodily dysfunctions under the skin, or that they’re suffering from a general medical condition or defect.
Mixed or Unspecified Delusions
When delusional beliefs don’t fall into a single category and no single theme dominates, the delusions are considered “mixed.”
Causes of delusional disorder
Research suggests that people who have family members with schizophrenia or schizotypal personality disorder are at greater risk of developing delusional disorder, suggesting that genetics may play a causal role in determining a person’s risk of developing the disorder.
Also, delusional disorder can be triggered by stress. Alcohol use disorder and substance use disorder might contribute to the condition.
When to see a doctor?
A person should seek medical help from a qualified professional, as Dr. Carla as soon as possible if they or a loved one is experiencing delusions. Early intervention and mental health support can have a positive effect on the person’s outlook.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This is a structured, goal-oriented type of therapy. Dr. Carla helps people take a close look at their thoughts and emotions. They’ll come to understand how their thoughts affect their actions. Through CBT, they can unlearn negative thoughts and behaviors and learn to adopt healthier thinking patterns and habits.
Family therapy is often part of the treatment for delusions as well. Through this type of therapy, family members can learn how to support their loved one who is experiencing delusional thought or behavior patterns.
