delusions Flashcards
what are delusions?
Delusions are fixed, false beliefs that are maintained despite contradictory evidence. They are a prominent feature of numerous psychiatric conditions, including but not limited to schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and psychotic depression.
how are delusions classified?
bizarre (very strange or highly unusual) or non-bizarre (plausible but incorrect)
mood-congruent (consistent with the individual’s emotional state) or mood-neutral.
what are nihilistic delusions?
Negative delusions typically congruent with the individual’s depressed mood. Patients may believe that they are dead or that the world has ended. Cotard’s delusion is the belief that oneself is dead or rotting.
what are grandiose delusions?
Patients believe they possess extraordinary traits or powers. Common in manic phases of bipolar disorder.
what are delusions of control?
The individual experiences a sensation that an external entity is controlling their thoughts or actions. Frequently observed in psychotic conditions.
what are persecutory delusions?
The patient believes they are being persecuted or conspired against. Common in conditions like paranoid schizophrenia.
what are somatic delusions?
Patients are convinced they have a physical, medical, or biological problem despite no medical evidence supporting their claim. These delusions can manifest as a wide range of physical symptoms.
what are delusional perceptions?
delusions arising from a real perception (e.g. bunch of flowers -> martians are about to land,) and can be self-referential.
what are delusions of reference?
things that are mundane (words in a newspaper) actually mean a special message to the patient.
how do you investigate delusions?
how do you manage delusions?
Pharmacological treatment
Psychotherapy - CBT
Psychoeducation
what meds are given for delusions?
Antipsychotic medication is the mainstay of treatment. The choice of medication depends on the underlying disorder, e.g., atypical antipsychotics for schizophrenia, mood stabilizers for bipolar disorder.
