Delusion is a condition that suggests perceptions or delusions that are deeply-rooted and impossible to alter. Patients with psychotic disorders are consistent, reasonable, and moderate" according to psychologist Emil Kraepelin; as such, delusions are not caused by the effects of medications, drugs, or ordinary diseases." Patients can function successfully in everyday life because the condition is not related to the IQ of a person; they may also not exhibit any unusual or abnormal behaviors. Delusional illnesses are divided into categories, including:
One of the most common types is persecutory delusion; patients think they are being stalked, threatened, misled, or plotted against, or that their efforts are being deliberately hindered. The delusions act like a comprehensive system of thoughts that regulates the patient in other instances.
Grandiose illusion is when patients assume that they have exceptional talents or expertise and that they are celebrities or public figures. A common case is the assumption that one has done something outstanding and has not earned proper recognition.
When patients are persuaded that they are responsible for the occurrence of some catastrophe, whether it be a fire, a flood, or an earthquake, which can not possibly be their fault, the delusion of guilt, sin, or self-accusation. This kind of delusion could cause depression if not treated by treatment.
By challenging one's odor, physical appearance, or bodily functioning, somatic delusion is generally manifested.
The illusion of influence is when patients mistakenly assume that their emotions, feelings, desires, or actions are governed by other entities, groups of people or external powers.
The illusion of mind-reading is when patients mistakenly assume that their thoughts can be read by another person.
Cotard's illusion is when patients believe like they do not exist, or any of their body parts, or that there are no people around them.
Delusional parasitosis is when insects, bacteria, or other micro-organisms are infested by patients; they can visit dermatologists and overuse drugs heavily.
Mixed delusions contain the effects of more than one of the forms described above, without a single form being entirely regulated.
A delusion must last for a month or more, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Delusional disorders can cause harm; it is therefore important that proper medical treatment is provided to the patient. Disorders can be acute; they develop over the span of two to twelve weeks, and if they persist for 3 months, they may become chronic.
Treatment involves establishing a relationship of trust between the therapist and the patient, beginning with behavioral therapy and psychoeducation. Treatment can result in behavioral improvements, such as improving the relationships of the patient and addressing issues that have deteriorated due to delusion. This therapy stage can be long; to see improvement could take up to six months to a whole year. Then comes the social and psychological therapy process, which requires sessions of individual or group therapy. This involves numerous techniques known for their efficacy in connecting the client with reality, such as hypnosis, persuasion, cognitive therapy, and Gestalt therapy. The last stage requires the use of anti-psychosis drugs that help people get over 50% of the symptoms. At least 90% of patients display changes in the symptoms.