Diagnosing delusion

[danaeris]

So, I have a question. This is the second time I've run into it (with separate people -- first a friend, and now a relative), and I'm kind of at a loss as to how to handle it

Comments

[eajou]

However, in your example you assume that Science has clearly established what is real and what is "delusion". You are assuming that our knowledge of reality is complete as it is now, and it is not. I'm just saying, your example is bad because you assume that you clearly know what is right and what other people experience. Can what people may claim to experience be entirely delusional? Yes. But sometimes people experience things, real things, that are not fake - but not explained yet either. Be careful where you draw the line

[tryst_inn]

Delusions aren't the priority. Don't presume the client has fooled the therapists, in a manner of speaking, the client is entitled to their delusions - we all believe things that cannot be quanitated and qualified, including our religions and spiritual beliefs

[countingstars06]

[berthablue]

Sometimes it's not about what's real, it's about what's right for the person. If someone wants to come to therapy and talk about their delusions and it helps them, this is progress. On the other hand, if someone is forced to talk about "reality" as defined by someone else and it's damaging or frustrating to them, it's counterproductive.

Then, of course, there are the millions of gray areas in between.

I think we all define our own realities, and unless someone's delusions are causing actual damage to themselves or others, it's no different than a white lie or a selective memory. I think that a therapist/client relationship is important, and people should work with someone they feel comfortable with.

[jovian_erinys]

It is important to remember that your friend and your relative must want to change in order for them to accept any help, whether you believe that the helpers are competent or not. The only information missing from your post is whether your friend and/or relative are harmful to themselves or to someone else and in what ways - the answer to this should determine the urgency of your friend and relative in seeking the appropriate treatment. Other than that, patience and empathy will serve your friend and relative to benefit them. Therapy takes time and it is important to build trust between the therapist and the client to ensure collaborative effort in finding the right type of treatment that works, long-term rather than getting a quick fix.