Paranoia or Delusional disorder

Paranoia or Delusional disorder

It has become common to use the word Paranoia in many journals, articles and news. Let us start with what is meant by “Paranoia” with respect to mental health. It is a personality disorder which is distinguished by suspiciousness, dishonest and distrust. It is known as delusional disorder too. The person believes his thinking irrespective of the fact whether it is true or not.  For example, a person might believe that his/her partner is having another affair and will be very suspicious about the partner in all aspects. The thoughts might be revolving in the mind all the time. A person undergoing this situation sometimes goes “out of control” in the thought process. The thought might be bothering to such an extent that he/she might not be able to focus on the respective job or routine.  There will be lot of misinterpretation of perceptions or any incidents. In reality it may not be true. At some point of time a person can turn violent too.

Symptoms

• Irritation  and anger
• Repeated thoughts
• Distrust
• Sleeplessness
• Low mood

Types of Delusional disorder

     There are different types of delusion based on the experience he/she has undergone.

Jealousy: This type of delusion is often seen in couples about their partner. They might suspect the morality or character of their partner. Here the partner will interpret each and every aspect in a suspicious or distrust manner. The thoughts will become more repeated on any particular incident and keep bothering. They might try to get all kind of evidence to prove their belief.

Grandiose: Delusion of grandeur occurs when a person beliefs that he has some supreme power, position and inflate about their self. In order to seek attention they might claim that “God has told me…..”, He/she believes themselves as a great individual.

Persecutory Delusion: In this delusion the patient believes that there are harmful enemies around him/her.  The interpretation of everything happening around him/her is believed to persecute. They will be alert most of the time about their surroundings.

Causes of Delusional Disorder

• It can be due to   feeling of inferiority
• Sense of guilt
• Sudden emotional  shock or stress
• Bitter experience of failure
• Personality type
• Heredity   

Treatment

Family members might observe the changes or sudden obsessions of thought very easily. Rather than taking it silly they need to approach a counselor or psychotherapist. Once the symptoms are identified by the professional therapist, medical interpretation along with therapy will help the person to overcome the situation. Therapist will intervene with cognitive behavior therapy, relaxation therapy to reduce the repetitive thought. The therapist will interpret the thoughts and beliefs of the client to bring back normal thought process. Emotional support need to be given to other family members.

Aantharya