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Delusion can also include the belief that one has special abilities or is needed to prevent a government misdeed or tragic event. Some might assume they are targeted by significant signals, that their health is in danger, or that they are in some way under attack by some power inserting thoughts into their brains or removing memories. Hallucinations: A hallucination is different from a delusion in that it is a specific visual or auditory experience that is not real. Hallucinations can include smells and phantom sensations as well. The patient might see an object such as a dragon or a person from his or her past, undergo what seems like a spiritual experience, or hear voices in his or her head issuing commands or information. Hallucinations can reinforce delusions, and vice versa. When experienced together, the phenomenon of delusions and hallucinations is usually referred to as “ psychosis .” Psychosis is not exclusive to schizophrenia—it can function as a symptom of other mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder—but it is one of the most devastating and significant aspects of living with this difficult disease. Patients in psychosis experience delusions and hallucinations as though they are reality. While it is possible for those who have been in psychosis to control the symptoms with prescriptions and other forms of medical attention, this symptom of schizophrenia can drastically interfere with living a normal life. Psychosis takes place without the patient wanting it in any way. Unusual Movements: Those who suffer from schizophrenia might move in distinctly odd ways, either seated or standing. Sometimes they experience bursts of activity or seem frantic, even conducting themselves without any apparent goal in mind. They may seem upset or restless and lose the ability to follow directions. If they are in psychosis, their facial expressions or speech might not seem to make any sense. A patient might rock, refuse to walk, or make sudden movements.

14 Behavioral Disorders: Schizophrenic Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders