Kinds of Paranoia
Paranoia refers to intense, irrational mistrust or suspicion of others. It can range from mild anxiety to severe delusions. There are different types of paranoia seen in mental health conditions:
- Persecutory Paranoia: The person believes others are out to harm, harass, or spy on them.
- Grandiose Paranoia: The person believes they have great power, talent, or status and others are jealous or trying to undermine them.
- Delusional Jealousy: The person wrongly believes their partner is unfaithful.
- Somatic Paranoia: The person believes something is terribly wrong with their body (linked to hypochondriasis).
Paranoia can be a symptom of conditions like Paranoid Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Delusional Disorder. Treatment includes antipsychotic medications and psychotherapy to improve insight and reduce anxiety.