Learn PTSD, Mental Health Topics
Q&A
Q: Can hallucinations occur as a symptom of PTSD?
A: Yes, hallucination can occur as a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)! For example, one documented case of such a situation was with a a client who had olfactory hallucinations; she would smell the body odor of the man who molested her as a child. When such hallucinations occur with PTSD, generally, the symptoms would be specific to (or related to) a traumatic event.
Such symptoms can be complex to diagnose, however, as many people who have psychotic disorders have also experienced trauma. Hence, a therapist needs to look for signs of a bonafide psychotic disorder (like schizophrenia), as this will help assess if a client is experiencing PTSD with hallucinations as a symptom, an unrelated psychotic disorder or maybe both.
Do you have a mental-health related question you’d like to ask? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!
Writer Thriveworks Staff
Published Jun 11, 2015
Features 2 comments
Fact-checked Why trust Thriveworks?
What does "fact-checked" mean?
Our clinical and medical experts, ranging from licensed therapists and counselors to psychiatric nurse practitioners, author our content, in partnership with our editorial team.In addition, we only use authoritative, trusted, and current sources. This ensures we provide valuable resources to our readers. Read our editorial policy for more information.
Why you can trust Thriveworks
Thriveworks was established in 2008, with the ultimate goal of helping people live happy and successful lives. We are clinician-founded and clinician-led. In addition to providing exceptional clinical care and customer service, we accomplish our mission by offering important information about mental health and self-improvement.
We are dedicated to providing you with valuable resources that educate and empower you to live better. First, our content is authored by the experts — our editorial team co-writes our content with mental health professionals at Thriveworks, including therapists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and more.
We also enforce a tiered review process in which at least three individuals — two or more being licensed clinical experts — review, edit, and approve each piece of content before it is published. Finally, we frequently update old content to reflect the most up-to-date information.
Recent articles
View all
Want to talk to a PTSD therapist? We have over 2,000 providers across the US ready to help you in person or online.
Find a provider(833) 966-4233
- Writer
Thriveworks Staff
Since 2008, Thriveworks practices have been synonymous with exceptional client care and customer service, and we’ve achieved that by being innovators/redefiners in the field.
Discover more
Struggling with PTSD?
Thriveworks can help.
Browse top-rated therapists near you, and find one who meets your needs. We accept most insurances, and offer weekend and evening sessions.
Find a provider (833) 966-4233
Rated 4.4 from over 14,890 Google reviews
Popular articles
PTSD stages: What are the four phases of PTSD?
Taylor Bennett
4 min read
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): A straight-talking, informative guide
Taylor Bennett
1 min read
How can therapy help people overcome PTSD?
Stanley Clark
3 min read
When the past is ever-present: Examining complex post-traumatic stress disorder
Chad Saylor
4 min read
Both PTSD and anxiety can be debilitating, but you can learn to manage your symptoms
Edie Weinstein, LSW
5 min read
Facts and history behind PTSD Awareness Month
Hannah DeWitt
3 min read
DSM 5: One Can Develop PTSD without Experiencing Trauma
Anthony Centore, PhD
2 min read
DSM 5: PTSD is Not an Expected Response to Trauma
Thriveworks Staff
1 min read
The long-term impacts of 9/11: How to cope with PTSD after almost two decades
Madison Bambini
5 min read
CPTSD vs. PTSD: Understanding the difference and the effects of multiple traumatic experiences
Jason Crosby
6 min read
Disclaimer
The information on this page is not intended to replace assistance, diagnosis, or treatment from a clinical or medical professional. Readers are urged to seek professional help if they are struggling with a mental health condition or another health concern.
If you’re in a crisis, do not use this site. Please call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or use these resources to get immediate help.
