Delusional Disorder
Delusional disorder is a psychiatric disorder that is characterized by frequent, sometimes reoccurring delusions without the presence of hallucinations or symptoms of a mood/thought disorder (for example, no signs of depression or anxiety). Generally, people with delusional disorder believe things that are rooted to some degree in reality (in other words, things that could, within the realm of possibility, happen) as opposed to unrealistic (or bizarre) delusions such as alien abduction or mind control. The delusions can take many different forms, such as those of grandeur, romantic attraction, paranoia, or those involving a strong religious feeling or belief.
Symptoms & signs of delusional disorder
There are seven main types of delusional disorders, including:
- Persecutory – believing that someone is trying to harm you or that you’re being spied on
- Somatic – believing you have a very specific medical condition or issue, even though none of the symptoms are present
- Grandiose – believing that you’re famous or of world-renowned importance
- Erotomanic – believing a specific person (who you may or may not have ever met) is in love with you
- Jealous – believing that your loved one is being unfaithful, despite evidence to the contrary
- Mixed – a combination of two or more of the types listed above
- Unspecified – delusions of a nature not fitting any of the other categories
When is it time to get help?
One of the challenges with delusional disorder is the inability to perceive reality – making seeking treatment for the disorder difficult. If your thoughts are interfering with your life or the ability to maintain relationships, are affecting your work or everyday activities, or if you have others telling you that what you believe is not accurate – then it may be time to seek help.
Delusional disorder treatment methods
Some treatment methods that may be effective in managing delusional disorder include:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)is an evidence-based approach to treatment that focuses on how people’s thoughts, emotions, and beliefs influence their behaviour and how they perceive themselves.
- Psychotherapy is a broad term that encompasses numerous styles of therapy and uses verbal or nonverbal communication with a client to help treat psychiatric problems, behavioral issues, personality disorders, and various other types of emotional distress. This form of personal counselling is based on an interpersonal relationship, as opposed to the alternative chemical or physical forms of therapy.
- Strategic family therapy is a type of therapy where the therapist is a problem-solver and focuses on finding solutions to client’s challenges.
- Structural family therapy involves looking at the structures within the family unit. Changing the underlying structure tends to cause a ripple effect on the family. This therapy analyzes the hierarchical structure, subsystems, and boundaries within the family.
- Crucible Approach therapy Crucible® Therapyor the Crucible Approach is an integrated therapeutic approach that started out as an integrated treatment for sex, intimacy, and relationship problems. With couples, the therapist will ultimately push them outside of their comfort zone and develop new comfort zones by becoming more emotionally mature.
To choose the right combination of treatments, an assessment will first be done. Together with your therapist, you’ll find the treatment method that best suits your unique personality and circumstances.
What will I get out of treatment with Insight Psychological?
By meeting with a therapist, you can learn to manage your delusional disorder and find ways to interact with others that can make your life easier. Our therapists are knowledgeable and non-judgmental, and would be honoured to support you. Please call us today!
