Hallucinations

Definition

Hallucinations are perceptions in the absence of external stimulus that have qualities of real perception. In simpler terms, they are things that someone sees, hears, smells, tastes or feels that aren't really there.

Related terms

Delusions:

These are false beliefs held despite strong evidence against them. Unlike hallucinations which involve perception, delusions involve belief.

Psychosis:

This is a severe mental disorder characterized by loss of contact with reality which may include hallucinations and delusions among other symptoms.

Schizophrenia:

A chronic mental health disorder characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, sense of self and behavior. Hallucination is one common symptom.