Delusional Disorder

Delusional disorder

Delusional disorder is a psychotic condition that is characterized by the presence of non-bizarre delusions. .

Non-bizarre delusions are fixed and unshakable false beliefs of something occurring  in a person’s life which is within the realm of possiblity, but is not supported by any concrete evidence.

People who have this disorder generally don’t experience a marked impairment in their daily functioning in a social, occupational or other important setting. Outward behavior is normal to others who observe or interact with the person. In fact many close friends and relatives may support the affected person because they have immence faith in the affected person and believe what he / she says..

Delusional disorder is notoriously difficult to treat as the affected persons are convinced that there is nothing wrong with them, and because their delusions are within the realm of possibility and may even be supported by other family members and friends.

Treatment includes medication and psychotherapy. The key is in convincing the person that he needs to be treated.

love

Usual types of delusions are:

  • Erotomania:  delusions that another person, usually of higher status, is in love with the individual
  • Grandiosity:  delusions of inflated worth, power, knowledge, identity, or special relationship to a deity or famous person
  • Jealousy: delusions that the individual’s sexual partner is unfaithful
  • Persecution:  delusions that the person (or someone to whom the person is close) is being persecuted or maliciously treated in some way by people at home, at work, or in the social circle.
  • Somatic: delusions that the person has some physical defect or general medical condition or has a body image disturbance.