Paranoid Delusion

A paranoid delusion, also known as a persecutory delusion, is a belief that one's self, or someone that the person is close to, is being malevolently or maliciously treated in some way. To be considered a delusion, these symptoms cannot be due to the effects of a drug, medication, or general medical condition or as part of a psychotic disorder such as schizophrenia. Delusions are a common part of psychotic disorders but can exist on their own as delusional disorders. Many people with delusional disorders are generally able to socialize and interact with the world while appearing completely normal although the delusions can eventually take a toll on the person's overall well-being and mental health.