A person with delusional disorder may appear generally normal—except when discussing these
there delusions
People with this type of delusional disorder believe that another person, often someone important or famous, is in love with them. They may attempt to contact the person of the delusion and engage in stalking behavior.
what is erotomanic
when do people with delusional disorder seek help?
when other mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression come up
doctors often rule out this brain-related issue, such as tumors,strokes,or Alzheimer's, before diagnosing delusional disorder
what are medical or neurological conditions
This factor improves a person’s outlook with delusional disorder—especially when treatment begins early and the person sticks with it
early diagnosis and consistent treatment?
Unlike schizophrenia, delusional disorder usually doesn’t cause these disorganized problems with speaking or behavior
thought and speech disturbances
People with this type of delusional disorder have an overinflated sense of self-worth, power, knowledge or identity. They may believe they have a great talent or have made an important discovery.
what is grandiose
what is the main treatment for delusional disorder?
psychotherapy
Unlike schizophrenia, this disorder usually doesn’t include hallucinations or major impairment in functioning
What is delusional disorder
Without proper treatment, people with delusional disorder are at higher risk of these serious outcomes involving harm to themselves or others
What are self-harm or violent behaviors?
This symptom can occur if a person believes others are out to harm them
paranoia
People with this type of delusional disorder believe that their spouse or sexual partner is unfaithful without any concrete evidence
what is jealous
what is a structured, goal-oriented type of therapy that helps people with delusional disorder?
cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
This type of test, often involving images of the brain, helps rule out physical causes of psychotic symptoms
What is a brain imaging test (CT or MRI)
This type of therapy helps people recognize false beliefs and improve their relationships and daily functioning
What is psychotherapy (or cognitive behavioral therapy)
Although many symptoms stay mild, this serious complication can happen if delusional beliefs lead to aggressive actions
violence
People with this type of delusional disorder believe someone or something is mistreating, spying on or attempting to harm them (or someone close to them).
what is persecutory
This therapy can help people with delusional disorder and their families
family focused therapy
Delusional disorder can be confused with this psychotic condition, but that illness usually includes disorganized speech, hallucinations, and negative symptoms
What is schizophrenia
Although many people can recover, this aspect of delusional disorder can make long-term management challenging
What is the person’s lack of insight or refusal to believe they’re ill
Unlike hallucinations, which involve false sensory experiences, these are the fixed false ideas central to the disorder
Delusions
People with this type of delusional disorder believe that they have a physical issue or medical problem, such as a parasite or a bad odor.
what is somatic
Other medications that healthcare providers might prescribe to treat delusional disorder include?
anxiolytics and antidepressants
Doctors may also check for substance use with this type of test when evaluating delusional disorder
What is a toxicology screen or drug test?
When delusional disorder goes untreated, it can interfere with these two major parts of a person’s life—often leading to isolation and stress
What are work and relationships?