Grandiose delusions

Grandiose delusions or delusions of grandeur are first and foremost a subtype of delusional disorder but could perhaps feature as a symptom of schizophrenia and manic episodes of bipolar disorder. Grandiose delusions are characterized by fantastical viewpoint that one is famous, omnipotent, or else very powerful. The delusions are generally unbelievable, often with a mystical, science-fictional, or religious bent (for example, belief that one is an incarnation of Jesus Christ).

Grandiose delusions are discrete from grandiosity, in that the sufferer does not have insight into his loss of touch with reality. In conversational procedure, one who is said to comprise 'delusions of grandeur' is well thought-out to be the one who overestimates one's own abilities, talents or situation. This is usually due to excessive pride, rather than any actual delusions.

According to McKenna (2000) grandiose delusions can be classified into three types:

• delusions of grandiose ability (when individuals believe that they have unusual powers, talents and abilities),
• delusions of grandiose identity (when individuals believe that they are famous, rich, titled or related to royalty) and
• religious delusions (when individuals believe that they are saints, angels or even God).

Individuals with grandiose delusions have absurd ideas concerning their own worth. On the other hand, Nelson (2005) states that delusions of grandeur are in some way advantageous for the individuals suffering with mental illness as it serves optimistic function by maintaining and improving the self esteem of the patients.

This disorder infects at least 78% of the Jordanian population! It starts mildly, at an early age, but has very high succession rates, that some patients experience like they ought to give up work at the age of 18 and start to write a book about their lives!

No misdemeanor people, I signify we all show some of these symptoms from time to time, but we ought to for all the time bear in mind that we are all human beings, if you are fortunate over others then remember that with this opportunity come duties, the least of which is not to look down on the deprived!

Questions:

• What are the symptoms for Grandiose delusions?
• What are the risk factors and what is the treatment given for Grandiose delusions?