Visual and Auditory Hallucinations: A Psychiatric Inquiry

What is this considered?

Hello, Doctor! This is my first time using this website, and I'm not quite sure which specialty to consult for my issues.
I apologize if I haven't expressed myself clearly.
I find it challenging to describe the problems I'm experiencing because they are abstract concepts in my mind.
However, I will do my best to explain.

I can't remember exactly when it started, but I began to see "different worlds." There are two types: the first is what I see directly with my eyes, but I know it's not real.
The second type doesn't appear "directly" in front of me; I can say that I'm not seeing it through my eyes, yet I also know it's not real.
It seems to coexist with the real world.

For example, when I'm sitting on my bed in my room typing on my laptop, the first type of vision I experience is that my room is slowly rotating and tilting.
The chair appears to be sinking into the floor, and my bed is swaying up and down like gentle waves.
The wall on the other side seems to be collapsing because the room is tilting to the right, and my wardrobe looks like it's growing taller while falling over.

The second type is when I look at my hands typing and the laptop; they seem to be melting or blooming.
The reality in front of me doesn't change; rather, it's the images in my mind that alter.
When I recall this memory, they overlap; in my mind, they are melting and blooming.
However, because I remember what my hands and laptop should look like, I know during my recollection that it isn't reality.
But when I think back to even earlier memories, I feel like I'm gradually losing the ability to distinguish what is real.
The first thing that comes to mind is the melting, blooming, distorted, and colorful images, along with auditory hallucinations.

Since I was very young, I often heard the sound of a faucet running and the sound of keys opening a door coming from the bathroom while I was awake before falling asleep.
I used to get up to check several times a night.
As I grew older, I often became so exhausted that I would fall asleep immediately upon lying down, and I heard those sounds less frequently.
Even if I did hear them, I became accustomed to it and wouldn't get up to check.

I have experienced auditory hallucinations of voices, but I hear them much less often now.
The hallucinations usually occur at home, while the visual distortions can happen regardless of the time or place.

That's what I wanted to inquire about! Thank you, Doctor, for taking the time to read this!

Youni, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/31

Dr. Huang Zhijia reply Psychiatry

Hello, the diagnosis of mental disorders requires a multifaceted approach and often long-term observation; it cannot be determined by a single complaint.
Please seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2023/12/31

More Info

Understanding visual and auditory hallucinations is a complex issue that often requires a nuanced approach, particularly in the field of psychiatry. Based on your description, it appears that you are experiencing both visual and auditory hallucinations, which can be indicative of various underlying mental health conditions.
Visual hallucinations, as you described, involve perceiving things that are not present in reality. This can manifest in different ways, such as seeing your room rotate or your furniture behaving in unusual ways. These experiences can be disorienting and may lead to confusion about what is real and what is not. The second type of visual experience you mentioned, where your perception of your hand and laptop seems to change in a more abstract way, suggests a possible dissociative experience or a distortion of perception, which can occur in various psychiatric conditions.

Auditory hallucinations, such as hearing sounds that are not there, can also be a significant symptom. You mentioned hearing sounds like running water or keys jingling, which can be quite common in individuals experiencing stress or anxiety, but can also be associated with more severe psychiatric disorders. The fact that you have experienced these symptoms since childhood and that they have evolved over time is noteworthy.
Hallucinations can occur in a variety of contexts, including but not limited to schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, severe depression, and even substance use or withdrawal. It is essential to consider the context of these experiences, including any stressors, changes in your life, or physical health issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Given the complexity of your experiences, it is crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a mental health professional. A psychiatrist can conduct a thorough assessment, which may include a detailed history of your symptoms, a physical examination, and possibly some laboratory tests to rule out any medical conditions that could be causing or exacerbating your hallucinations.
Treatment options for hallucinations can vary widely depending on the underlying cause. If a psychiatric disorder is diagnosed, treatment may include psychotherapy, medication (such as antipsychotics), and lifestyle modifications. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in helping individuals manage their symptoms and improve their coping strategies.
Additionally, it is essential to address any potential contributing factors, such as sleep disturbances, substance use, or significant stressors in your life. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, engaging in relaxation techniques, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also be beneficial in managing symptoms.

In summary, your experiences with visual and auditory hallucinations are significant and warrant professional attention. It is crucial to approach this matter with care and seek help from a qualified mental health professional who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are effective treatments available that can help you regain a sense of control over your perceptions and experiences.

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