What Are Delusions?
While hallucinations are defined as “false perceptions,” schizophrenia.com defines delusions as “false beliefs or misinterpretations of events and their significance.” In other words, hallucinations are characterized by sensory experiences, and delusions are characterized by cognitive ones.
Paranoia plays an enormous role in delusions as a symptom of schizophrenia. A person with schizophrenia may become so paranoid that they believe someone or something is out to get them. For example, if a person with schizophrenia sees a cop car drive by, he might think that the police are coming to arrest them, no matter how irrational that thought might be.
How Do I Deal with Someone Suffering from Delusions?
If you try to help this person think rationally, though, he might lash out and accuse you of collaborating with the police in this imaginary effort. Arguing or otherwise trying to reason with schizophrenic individuals who are suffering from delusions will only lead them to further mistrust you or falsely accuse you, since his beliefs, though farfetched, are very real to him.
In dealing with a person experiencing delusions, you must remember that delusions are a result of a disconnect in the brain, not of ignorance or a need to be dramatic. Coping, and helping others cope, with delusions can be complicated, exhausting, and aggravating, and patience is necessary in maintaining one’s composure and helping the patient get the help he needs.
Only doctors and therapists can prescribe and administer medication and treatment for delusions, but the support systems of those with schizophrenia can find their own ways of helping their loved ones feel more comfortable even in the midst of their delusions.
It’s crucial that you as a supporter refrain from using phrases such as “you’re crazy” or “you’re being irrational” when a schizophrenic person is experiencing a delusion. They feel out of control as it is, and they need support and guidance from you, not criticism and taunting.
Instead of attacking them, say something like, “I’m sorry you’re feeling scared. It can be difficult when you think someone doesn’t like you. How about we find somewhere quiet where we can talk or just sit together? We should go somewhere where you feel safe and protected.”
While these responses do have a chance of inciting anger in those experiencing a delusion, they are much more helpful than belittling a patient for something he can’t help or stop.
Making sure that a person with schizophrenia is following their doctor’s and therapist’s orders is the most important thing a loved one can do for someone battling mental illness. Remember that you, and they, are not alone in this fight and that we want to come alongside you and help you regain control of your mental health.