Helping Someone Who Is Hallucinating

Overview

A hallucination is a perception of something that is not really there. It can involve sight, hearing, taste, smell, or touch. For example, a person may hear voices that nobody else hears or may see something that nobody else sees.

When someone you care about is having hallucinations, it can be hard to know what to do. You might want to help but not be sure how to respond. And while every person's needs will be different, these tips can help.

• Learn about hallucinations. Supporting a loved one who has hallucinations takes patience, empathy, and an understanding of what they're going through. It can also help you feel more confident.
• Assess the situation. Is the hallucination upsetting the person? If the symptom is not distressing for you or them, the best response might be to do nothing.
• Offer reassurance. Speak calmly and provide comfort. This might sound like, "I am here for you. You're safe."
• Use distraction. Try engaging the person in an activity they enjoy. Or invite them to move to a new room. Often hallucinations will lessen in well-lit areas where other people are present.
• Acknowledge the person's experience. Avoid arguing or dismissing what they are experiencing. If they ask you about the hallucination, respond honestly. This may sound like, "I know that you see something, but I don't see it."
• Change the environment. Reduce triggers like shadows, reflections, or items that may cause distress.

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

• Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
• Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.