Delusional Disorder

About Delusional Disorder

Delusional disorder is characterized by one or more delusions lasting at least a month in a person who does not otherwise meet criteria for schizophrenia. Prominent hallucinations are usually absent, and apart from the impact of the delusion itself, everyday functioning and behavior are often not obviously impaired. DSM-5 describes several types according to the theme of the belief, including persecutory, jealous, erotomanic, grandiose and somatic types, with persecutory themes being the most common. The condition is considered relatively uncommon and usually begins in middle or later adulthood. People with delusional disorder often do not see their beliefs as symptoms, so they may come to clinical attention because of related distress, conflict or legal issues. Treatment relies heavily on building a respectful therapeutic relationship, and may include cognitive behavioral approaches and antipsychotic medication, with response varying between individuals.