Religious delusion

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A sign from God

Religious delusion
Specialty	Psychiatry
Symptoms	Belief in religious ideas that are not based in reality
Complications	Social isolation, conflict with others
Usual onset	Variable
Duration	Chronic
Types	Grandiose delusions, persecutory delusions
Treatment	Psychotherapy, antipsychotic medication

Religious delusion is a psychiatric condition characterized by a belief in religious ideas that are not based in reality. Individuals experiencing religious delusions may hold beliefs that they are divinely chosen, have a special mission, or are receiving messages from a higher power.

Symptoms

Symptoms of religious delusion can vary but often include a strong conviction in the truth of one's religious beliefs despite evidence to the contrary. Individuals may exhibit behaviors such as proselytizing excessively, engaging in rituals compulsively, or isolating themselves from others who do not share their beliefs.

Types

There are different types of religious delusions, with two common subtypes being grandiose delusions and persecutory delusions. Grandiose delusions involve beliefs of having special powers or being a chosen figure in a religious context, while persecutory delusions involve beliefs of being persecuted or targeted by malevolent forces due to one's religious beliefs.

Treatment

Treatment for religious delusion typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and antipsychotic medication. Psychotherapy can help individuals explore the origins of their delusions and develop coping strategies, while antipsychotic medication can help manage symptoms and improve overall functioning.

Complications

Left untreated, religious delusion can lead to social isolation, conflict with others, and impaired daily functioning. Individuals may struggle to maintain relationships, hold down jobs, or participate in society due to the impact of their delusional beliefs.

See also

• Delusional disorder
• Psychosis
• Religious fanaticism