Hallucinations

Hallucinations are abnormal sensory perceptions of stimuli that occur in the absence of external stimuli. Hallucinations can be visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, or gustatory. There are numerous disorders that are associated with hallucinations, including, but not limited to, schizophrenia, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use and withdrawal, and mood disorders. To determine appropriate treatment, the etiology of the hallucinations must be ascertained by conducting a thorough medical history, psychological assessment, and, if warranted, imaging studies.

Definition

Hallucinations can be defined as conscious abnormal sensory perceptions that do not have a source in the outside world. Hallucinations can involve one or more senses, including visual, auditory, gustatory, olfactory, or tactile. People who experience hallucinations report experiences such as seeing things that aren't there, hearing voices that no one ...

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