“You’re so paranoid!”
Has anyone said that to you?
Well, Paranoia is not something you joke about.
Paranoia is a serious psychological diagnosis.
So what is paranoia exactly?
The Better Health Channel defines Paranoia as the “irrational and persistent feeling that people are ‘out to get you’ or that you are the subject of persistent, intrusive attention by others (2023)”.
Paranoia can be a disorder and a symptom of a primary disorder. Paranoia is often a symptom that is associated with Schizophrenia.
Like most disorders there is a strong genetic component, however more research is needed to fully understand this disorder.
According to the Mind Organization (2023), Paranoia is associated with the following:
- Paranoid schizophrenia – a type of schizophrenia where you experience extreme paranoid thoughts
- Delusional disorder (persecutory type) – a type of psychosis where you have one main delusion related to being harmed by others
- Paranoid personality disorder
Paranoia can affect multiple aspects of your life.
Individuals diagnosed with Paranoia are often unable to compromise, are extremely defensive, and/or may act aggressive towards others.
Paranoia is a serious psychological disorder that requires constant support.
Individuals diagnosed with this illness see no wrong in their actions. They believe that their thoughts and actions are ultimately superior to others. It can be very difficult to reason with them.
You may be asking yourself, what should I do?
The first thing you should do is ask your medical provider. They may refer you to outside resources in which you can get a mental health evaluation.
A mental health evaluation provides your medical provider with a “bigger picture” of what is going on within your mind.
Some may even refer you to a Psychiatrist if needed.
It is important to know that you have options.
There are people who see multiple providers to get the best quality of care.
The Mind organization (2023) notes the following treatment modalities that have shown great promise:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Psychodynamic therapy
- Arts and creative therapies
- Family (or systemic) therapy
- Medication
Some providers may even recommend a combination of medications and psychotherapy
This disorder can be extremely overwhelming to their caregivers as well. Sometimes one will want to give up because they feel alone in this world.
It is imperative that we recognize our own physical and mental needs. If you feel like nothing is working, try to look for your own therapist.
There is no shame in asking for help. Your health is important too. The Mayo clinic (2023) recommends the following tips for caregivers:
- Ask for and accept help. Make a list of ways in which others can help you.
- Focus on what you can do. Believe that you’re doing the best you can.
- Set goals you can reach. Break large tasks into smaller steps that you can do one at a time.
- Get connected. Learn about caregiving resources in your area. You might find caregiving services such as rides, meal delivery or house cleaning.
- Join a support group. People in support groups know what you’re dealing with.
- Seek social support. Stay connected to family and friends who support you.
- Take care of your health. Find ways to sleep better. Move more on most days. Eat a healthy diet. Drink plenty of water.
- See your health care professional. Get the vaccines you need and regular health screenings.
The goal of this article was to define what paranoia is and to remind you that your health matters too. It can take some time before you realize you need help too. Paranoia can be an overwhelming diagnosis, but remember you are not alone. Millions of people around the world have experienced it one way or another. So do not be afraid to ask for help.
This post was written by Jasmine P., and published by Convenient Counseling Services.
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References
Mind Organization. (2023). What is paranoia?. Mind. https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/paranoia/about-paranoia/
Department of Health & Human Services. (2023, November 20). Paranoia. Better Health Channel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/paranoia#bhc-content
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2023, August 9). Practical solutions for caregiver stress. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/caregiver-stress/art-20044784
