What are the Most Common Visual Hallucinations?

Diane Carbo

Oct 2, 2023 — 8 min read

Common Visual Hallucinations

Visual hallucinations can be some of the most frightening experiences a person may encounter. It's natural to feel a sense of confusion or worry if you have been experiencing them, as many of us don't understand what visual hallucinations are or why we have them. This guide is aimed at providing an overview of visual hallucinations and the underlying causes, as well as the most common types of visual hallucinations, the associated risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and coping techniques.

To start, it's important to understand exactly what visual hallucinations are. Visual hallucinations are when people see objects, people, or scenes that are not actually there. They can involve both movement and color and these apparitions may even appear to interact and respond to the person witnessing them. It's important to note that visual hallucinations are not the same as seeing things that have real physical existence; rather, they are purely psychological in nature.

Visual hallucinations can be broken down into two main categories: those caused by medical conditions or substance use and those due to psychological issues. Medical conditions such as migraines, temporal lobe epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and dementia can all cause visual hallucinations. Substance use, such as hallucinogens, alcohol, sedatives, and opioids, can also cause visual hallucinations. Psychological issues, such as extreme stress, sleep deprivation, and depression, can also lead to visual hallucinations.

This guide will cover all of the aspects of visual hallucinations discussed above, as well as provide resource materials for further reading. By the end of this guide, you should have a better understanding of visual hallucinations, including their causes, the most common types, diagnosis and treatment options, and helpful coping techniques.

Definition and Types of Visual Hallucinations

Visual hallucinations are the experience of seeing objects, images, or people that aren't actually present. It is usually caused by a mental health condition, substance use, or physical illness. The hallucination can occur in any part of the visual field, including the peripheral vision.

Hallucinations can be classified into three types. The first type are illusions, which are misinterpretations of real stimuli. For example, a person may see the reflection of a tree in the water and assume it is an animal. The second type are geometrical illusions, which are images created by patterns of light or color. The third type of hallucination is a pseudohallucination, which is a vivid image that is perceived as unreal but still extremely vivid.

Visual hallucinations can also be divided into three categories based on the level of intensity experienced. A mild hallucination is one which is barely perceptible and may have no significant impact on the person's life. A moderate hallucination is more noticeable, and can cause mild confusion or disorientation. Finally, a severe hallucination is one which is so vivid and intense that it seems almost real and has a major impact on the affected person.

Causes of Visual Hallucinations

Visual hallucinations are disruptions in the brain’s normal functioning which can cause a person to see or hear things that are not there. There are many potential causes of visual hallucinations, including health conditions, substance use, or psychological issues.

Health Conditions

Certain medical conditions can cause changes in the brain that lead to visual hallucinations. These include neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, stroke, and dementia. Other chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can also cause hallucinations.

Substance Use

Certain substances, such as alcohol, marijuana, and hallucinogenic drugs, can cause temporary visual hallucinations in some people. The hallucinations caused by these substances are often intense and can make it difficult for the user to distinguish reality from fiction.

Psychological Issues

Stress and anxiety can also be a cause of visual hallucinations. People experiencing high levels of stress or anxiety may experience altered perceptions which can lead to hallucinations. Depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia can also cause changes in the brain that lead to visual hallucinations.

It is important to note that visual hallucinations can also be caused by a combination of factors, such as a mental health disorder and substance abuse. If you are experiencing visual hallucinations, it is important to seek professional help to determine the underlying cause.

Most Common Types of Visual Hallucinations

Visual hallucinations occur when someone sees something that is not physically present in their environment. They can range from mild, fleeting images to shocking visions that may even seem real. Although visual hallucinations are often associated with certain mental health disorders, they can also be caused by medical conditions, substance use, or other factors.

The most common types of visual hallucinations include:

Simple Visual Hallucinations – This type of visual hallucination includes seeing objects such as people, animals, shapes, or colors that are not actually present. These are usually brief and may only last for a few seconds.
Complex Visual Hallucinations – Complex visual hallucinations involve seeing fully formed scenes, such as landscapes or entire conversations, that are not actually occurring in reality.
Charles Bonnet Syndrome – Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is a type of visual hallucination experienced by people who have lost some of their vision due to age-related eye diseases. People with CBS often perceive distorted faces, figures, or patterns that are not actually present.
Visuo-spatial Hallucinations – Visuo-spatial hallucinations involve seeing an object or a person that appears to occupy physical space, such as a person sitting on the edge of the bed even when no one is actually present.

Although these are the most common types of visual hallucinations, there are other rare types that can also occur. It’s important to note that visual hallucinations can also be a symptom of a serious medical condition, so it’s important to speak to your physician if you’re experiencing them.

Risk factors associated with visual hallucinations

Visual hallucinations are the perceiving of images, sounds, and other sensory experiences that have no real physical origin. While anyone can experience visual hallucinations, those who have certain risk factors are at a higher likelihood of experiencing them.

The following are some of the risk factors that may increase the chances of having visual hallucinations:

Age – Visual hallucinations are more likely to occur in older adults, especially those over the age of 65.
Alzheimer’s and dementia – People with these conditions are more likely to experience visual hallucinations due to the damage caused to their brains.
Psychiatric disorders – Those with conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or depression are more likely to experience visual hallucinations.
Substance use – Excessive, long-term use of certain drugs, such as alcohol, cannabis, and hallucinogens, can lead to visual hallucinations.
Traumatic brain injury – People with a traumatic brain injury are at a higher risk of experiencing visual hallucinations.
Cancer – Certain types of brain tumors are known to cause visual hallucinations.

Regardless of the cause, it is important to note that having any of the risk factors above does not guarantee that a person will experience visual hallucinations. Everyone is different and it is possible for someone to experience visual hallucinations even without any known risk factors.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Visual Hallucinations

If you have been experiencing visual hallucinations, it is important to seek professional help. A medical professional such as a doctor or psychiatrist can diagnose the cause of your hallucinations and provide treatment if necessary. Visual hallucinations can be caused by a range of physical or psychological conditions, and a proper diagnosis is therefore critical.

To diagnose a visual hallucination, a doctor will first ask questions about your symptoms and discuss your medical history. They may also perform physical and neurological exams to rule out any medical conditions that could be causing the hallucinations. The doctor may also want to run tests such as MRI scans or other imaging tests in order to gain a better understanding of your condition. After a diagnosis has been made, the doctor will recommend treatment options based on their assessment.

Treatment for visual hallucinations can vary depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage the symptoms, while in others psychotherapy can help to address any psychological issues that could be contributing to the hallucination. Some people also find that lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep and avoiding certain substances, can help to reduce the frequency and severity of the hallucinations.

It is important to remember that no two cases of visual hallucinations are the same. If you are experiencing visual hallucinations, it is important to speak to a medical professional to ensure that you receive the best course of treatment for your condition.

Coping with visual hallucinations can be tricky. It can be difficult to make sense of what you’re seeing or hearing, and it can be scary. Fortunately, there are ways to cope with the experience.

The following tips and techniques can help you manage your visual hallucinations:

Recognize that the experience is real for you even though it isn't real objectively.
Practice relaxation techniques or mindfulness exercises when feeling overwhelmed by a hallucination.
Keep yourself safe, move away from things that seem scary in the hallucination.
Stay connected to reality – ask yourself questions like what day it is, or who is president.
Talk to somebody you trust about what you're experiencing - they can help you stay grounded and provide emotional support.
Try to engage with others – participating in activities with friends and family may help distract you from the experience.

It can also be helpful to keep a journal to track your experiences with hallucinations. This can help you identify triggers and patterns that could help you manage the condition. Additionally, talking to a therapist or other mental health professional may be beneficial. They can provide strategies to reduce the frequency and intensity of your hallucinations.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that you're not alone. Reach out to a friend, family member, or mental health professional to get the support and help you need to manage your hallucinations.

Resources for Additional Information

Finding additional information about visual hallucinations can be difficult, but there are some resources available for those seeking more insight and guidance. Here is a list of websites and reading materials that may be useful for those who believe they are experiencing visual hallucinations.

Websites:
Books:
- “Hallucinations” by Oliver Sacks
- “Psychology and Psychosis” by Richard Bentall
- “Hallucinations and Related Disorders” by Michael J. Lyons
Videos:

It is important to seek professional help if you believe you are experiencing visual hallucinations. This guide has provided an overview of visual hallucinations, the most common types, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and coping techniques. For more detailed information on visual hallucinations and related topics, we recommend the listed web and print materials.

Visual hallucinations involve sensing something that isn't really there—seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting or feeling things that don't exist. This guide explores the causes, types, and treatment of visual hallucinations, in order to provide information and support to those who experience them.

We began by discussing the definition and types of visual hallucinations, taking a look at how they can be divided into categories such as optical, dream-like, and complex, and exploring the risk factors associated with visual hallucinations. We then looked into the most common types of visual hallucinations, which include people, animals, objects, and landscapes.

Next, we covered the causes of visual hallucinations, touching on health conditions, substance use, and psychological issues. We also discussed diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical help. Furthermore, we outlined coping techniques and suggested helpful resources.

Visual hallucinations can be a frightening and disorienting experience, and it is important to reach out for help if you are experiencing them. Mental health professionals can provide many resources for those looking to cope with visual hallucinations. Additionally, offering support to others who may be affected by visual hallucinations can help create a sense of community.

It is important to remember that although visual hallucinations can be frightening and overwhelming, seeking professional help and support from others can help make the experience more manageable. It is also important to stay informed about visual hallucinations, as understanding more about this phenomenon can help reduce fear and confusion.