What to Do When a Loved One Sees Things That Aren’t There
When a loved one starts seeing things that aren’t there, it can be confusing and worrying. These experiences, called hallucinations, might happen for various reasons—mental health conditions like schizophrenia or dissociative disorders, neurological issues such as Charles Bonnet Syndrome related to vision loss, or other medical causes. Knowing how to respond calmly and supportively is important.
First, **stay calm and listen without judgment**. Let your loved one share what they are experiencing without dismissing their feelings or telling them the hallucinations aren’t real. Instead of arguing about what they see, acknowledge their distress by saying something like, “That sounds really hard” or “I’m here with you.” This helps build trust and makes them feel less alone.
Next, **ask gently how you can help**. Sometimes just being present is enough; other times they may want assistance with daily tasks or company during difficult moments. You might offer to do chores together or suggest simple activities like going for a walk to provide distraction and comfort.
If the hallucinations seem linked to a known condition such as schizophrenia or Charles Bonnet Syndrome (which happens in people with vision problems), encourage your loved one to continue treatment if they have it—or seek professional help if not yet connected with care. Treatment options vary but often include therapy and medication that can reduce symptoms over time.
In moments when your loved one feels overwhelmed by what they see:
– Encourage grounding techniques like blinking rapidly or shifting focus away from the hallucination.
– Help them engage in calming activities.
– If safe and appropriate, suggest simple physical actions such as splashing cold water on their face which may help reduce anxiety.
It’s also crucial to be aware of safety concerns: if your loved one talks about hurting themselves or others because of these experiences, seek emergency help immediately.
Finally, remember that supporting someone through this isn’t easy—you may feel scared or helpless at times. Taking care of yourself by seeking support from friends, professionals, or support groups will make you stronger in helping your loved one navigate these challenges together.
