Paranoia: Destroying Lives
Delusional (Paranoid) DisorderDelusions are firmly held beliefs that are untrue, not shared by others in the culture, and not easily modifiable. This form of paranoia can be more severe and debilitating than the previous one. Here are the 5 main types of delusions that this sort of character endures:
A person with paranoid personality disorder might believe that his colleagues are making jokes at his own expense, while a delusional paranoid will believe the whole world is plotting a master plan to persecute him.
I've got to admit, this delusion occurs more frequently in women than in men. But there are definitely instances where men also become irrationally jealous and accusatory.
These are usually the stalkers of the world. They believe that they are romantically in love with someone of higher stature or fame.
Delusions of grandeur
Well, we all experience this once or twice in our lifetimes (okay, maybe it's not a delusion then). In all seriousness, these are people who believe they have incredible powers and influence on others (they can heal the sick, bring about peace, rule a nation, etc...).
In other words, hypochondriacs. These are people who believe that there is always something wrong with their health and bodies, even if they're perfectly healthy.
Paranoid SchizophreniaIndividuals with paranoid schizophrenia commonly have extremely bizarre delusions or hallucinations, almost always following a specific theme. Sometimes they hear voices that others cannot hear or believe that their thoughts are being controlled or broadcast aloud. After a while, they begin to feel as if they are prisoners in their own heads. This can lead to other serious mental problems.
your lifestyle, your mindCertain people are more prone to paranoia than others. It is commonly believed that people who live and work in high-stress environments are more likely to develop paranoid thoughts. Such people could be immigrants, minority groups, prisoners of war and veterans, police detectives, politicians, lawyers, and teachers.
It is important to remember that paranoia can also be caused by genetic factors. Stress can sometimes simply be the trigger.
available treatmentsThe two best treatments currently available are psychotherapy and/or drug therapy with antipsychotics. If you know of someone who is taking medication for this problem, it would be a good idea to stay by their side until they swallow their pills. In many cases, the paranoid can hide their pills in their cheeks and then spit them out when you leave.
Don't be nave in thinking that this condition only happens to "other people." It can happen to anyone at any time. The important thing is to identify the problem before it gets out of hand. It's also never too late to seek help, especially from friends and family. They will support you through the toughest of times.