Can hallucinations hurt you?

Hallucinations can’t physically harm you, but they can affect your mental health and wellbeing. If they cause distress, it’s important to seek support.

What are hallucinations?

Hallucinations are when you sense things that aren’t really there. You might hear voices, see things, or feel sensations others don’t notice. These experiences can be confusing or frightening, but sometimes they may feel comforting.

How can hallucinations impact you?

• Emotional distress: Hallucinations can make you feel scared, worried, angry, or confused.
• Behavioural risks: If you’re distressed, you might act in ways that could harm yourself or others.
• Mental health: Hallucinations are linked to conditions like psychosis, schizophrenia, depression, or bipolar disorder. They can also be caused by sleep deprivation or medication side effects.
  
  

What should you do?

If hallucinations are causing you distress or affecting your behaviour, support and treatment are available. Reaching out to a medical professional can help you manage these experiences and improve your wellbeing.

Where to find help

• Visit our psychosis information page for advice and support.
• Read about schizophrenia and other related conditions.