Delusions are false and irrational beliefs that someone holds onto, even when there is evidence that they are not real. Delusions occur in some mental illnesses and may need to be treated by a health professional Show Delusions are fixed beliefs about something that are not based in reality, and that others in the same culture, religion or other social group do not share. For example, someone might believe they are the captain of the Australian rugby team, or that an alien has taken over the body of someone in their family. No facts or reasoning can shake the person's belief. The delusion seems entirely real to them, and they can become completely preoccupied with it. Not everyone who has delusions has a mental illness. Some people in society have very strong and unusual ideas. But when these ideas become distressing or interfere with day-to-day life, work or relationships, they can be the sign of a mental illness that needs professional treatment. Delusions may indicate someone has psychosis, schizophrenia, a mood disorder, a personality disorder, dementia or Parkinson's disease. What are the types of delusions?There are several different types of delusion:
How are delusions treated?The first step is to see a doctor. The doctor may refer the person to a mental health professional to diagnose the cause of the delusions. The choice of health professional to treat delusions will depend on their cost, where the patient lives and what sort of mental illness is involved. The doctor will be able to advise about this. Medicines are often used to control delusions, including antipsychotic medicines, antidepressants and mood stabilisers. Other therapies like cognitive behaviour therapy are also sometimes used. If someone you know is having delusions, remember that they will seem very real to that person. It is best not to argue with them, try to persuade them with evidence, or to laugh at them. You can help by showing them love and support, helping them to recognise what triggers their delusions, and encouraging them to seek treatment. Where can I find help?If someone has tried to harm themselves or someone else, or you think they are about to, call triple zero (000) immediately and ask for an ambulance. A crisis assessment and treatment team (CATT) responds to urgent requests to help people in mental health crisis 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can call the mental health crisis line in your state for help. Read about 'first aid' for psychosis in this Mental Health First Aid fact sheet. In the longer term, family and friends may become involved in supporting someone who has psychosis. SANE Australia has more information. There are a variety of reasons why this happens. The symptoms of psychotic illnesses such as Schizophrenia, for example, may involve delusions, hallucinations, and disturbance to thinking processes – these can make it difficult for the person to realise or acknowledge that they have a mental illness and need help. The person may have stigmatising attitudes towards mental illness, which make it difficult to acknowledge the need for help. Or they may accept they have an illness, but not want to take medication, with the possible side-effects involved. Whatever the reason, it may be that you are feeling concerned about their mental health, distress, or abiilty to manage their daily life. Encourage the person to access treatment on their own volition and with your support. Here are some strategies to make communicating your concerns easier and hopefully more effective:
 What if they still won’t accept help?If the person is still reluctant to acknowledge a problem or to see a mental health professional, ask what is stopping them. Once you know what they are worried about, work together to find solutions to overcome these barriers. For example:
Remember that if at all possible it is best for the person involved to voluntarily seek help. Don’t worry if your first attempt to talk isn’t successful. An initial conversation may plant the seed of seeking help in the person’s mind. By showing that you care and are not going to judge them, they will be more likely to come to you when they do decide to seek help. If there is outright resistance to the idea of getting medical help, talk to the doctor yourself to work out a plan. The doctor may be able to visit the person at home to make an assessment. If this is not possible, they should still be able to tell you where to get help and support – for the person as well as others who are worried. Someone refusing to acknowledge a problem or accept treatment can place family members and friends under significant strain, especially if the person is experiencing active symptoms. Don't think you have to deal with this situation alone, contact local mental health services, a helpline or carer organisation for advice and support. Can a delusional person be helped?Treatment for Delusions
Treatment may vary depending on the underlying condition, but in general psychotic symptoms like delusions can be managed with antipsychotic medications and behavioral therapies. Over time, this combination most often reduces and may even eliminate delusions.
What happens if delusional disorder goes untreated?The delusional disorder, if left untreated, might lead to depression, often as a consequence of difficulties associated with the delusions. Delusions also can lead to violence or legal issues; for instance, stalking or harassing the object of delusion, could lead to arrest.
How would you handle someone who is having a delusion?Let the person know that you recognise the feelings that can be evoked by the delusions. For example, you could say: 'It must feel very frightening to think that there is a conspiracy against you. ' Respond to the underlying feelings and encourage discussion of these rather than the content of the delusion.
What triggers delusional disorder?Environmental/psychological: Evidence suggests that stress can trigger delusional disorder. Alcohol and drug abuse also might contribute to it. People who tend to be isolated, such as immigrants or those with poor sight and hearing, appear to be more likely to have delusional disorder.
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