You may gently suggest evidence to the contrary, and ask them their opinion. But do not directly tell them they are wrong or delusional, as it will make them resist working with you.
Let the person know that you recognise the feelings that can be evoked by the delusions. For example, you could say: 'It must feel very frightening to think that there is a conspiracy against you. ' Respond to the underlying feelings and encourage discussion of these rather than the content of the delusion.
But when someone is experiencing a psychotic episode, their delusions become fixed. This means that the person has absolutely no doubt that what they think, feel, see, or hear is real. There's nothing you can do or say to convince them otherwise… But you also won't make the delusions more fixed if you talk about them.
Treatment for Delusions
Treatment may vary depending on the underlying condition, but in general psychotic symptoms like delusions can be managed with antipsychotic medications and behavioral therapies. Over time, this combination most often reduces and may even eliminate delusions.
People who have psychotic episodes are often totally unaware their behaviour is in any way strange or that their delusions or hallucinations are not real. They may recognise delusional or bizarre behaviour in others, but lack the self-awareness to recognise it in themselves.
People developing a psychotic disorder will often not reach out for help. Someone who is experiencing profound and frightening changes such as psychotic symptoms will often try to keep them a secret. If you are concerned about someone, approach the person in a caring and non judgmental manner to discuss your concerns.
Tell them that your loved one is psychotic, and explain you need help controlling their behavior and getting them medical treatment. Ask the police not to show any weapons when they arrive so they don't alarm them more. If possible, someone should stay with you while you wait.
An imbalance of certain chemicals in your brain, called neurotransmitters, has been linked to the formation of delusional symptoms. Environmental and psychological factors: Evidence suggests that delusional disorder can be triggered by stress.
Environmental/psychological: Evidence suggests that stress can trigger delusional disorder. Alcohol and drug abuse also might contribute to it. People who tend to be isolated, such as immigrants or those with poor sight and hearing, appear to be more likely to have delusional disorder.
The delusional disorder, if left untreated, might lead to depression, often as a consequence of difficulties associated with the delusions. Delusions also can lead to violence or legal issues; for instance, stalking or harassing the object of delusion, could lead to arrest.
Your experience of psychosis will usually develop gradually over a period of 2 weeks or less. You are likely to fully recover within a few months, weeks or days.
Don't try to argue with or correct the person.
Persecutory delusion
This is the most common form of delusional disorder. In this form, the affected person fears they are being stalked, spied upon, obstructed, poisoned, conspired against or harassed by other individuals or an organization.
Most theorists agree on the first step, that delusions arise in the context of a delusional mood, an emotionally aroused state that makes the person hyperalert to threat. After that, some assume perception goes awry—something misheard or misperceived giving rise to increasing emotional upheaval and misinterpretation.
When Is It Time to Walk Away? In some cases, the decision to leave is obvious. If physical abuse is present to any degree, and especially if the individual fears for their own life or well-being or that of their children, it's important to leave as soon as possible. Safety is the number one priority.
Treatment Summary: Delusional disorder is difficult to treat because of the client's suspicious and delusional beliefs. However, research indicates that psychotherapy in conjunction with antipsychotic medication is the most effective form of treatment.