What are hallucinations?

Hallucinations are experiences where an individual perceives something that is not actually present in their environment. This can involve any of the senses, including sight, sound, taste, smell, or touch. For example, a person may hear voices that others do not, see objects or people that are not there, or feel sensations on their skin without any physical cause.

This definition highlights the nature of hallucinations as sensory experiences that occur in the absence of external stimuli. Understanding this concept is crucial in the context of mental health and medical conditions, as hallucinations can be symptomatic of various disorders like schizophrenia, severe mood disorders, or substance use. Recognizing hallucinations as a perception issue helps in diagnosing and treating underlying conditions effectively.