Shared psychotic disorder is a rare mental illness also referred to as "folie a deux ("the folly of two). In this disorder, a person who is in a close relationship with another person develops a delusion similar to one held by the other party. This usually occurs between two people, such as a married couple who has been together many years. It can also occur in groups, such as with a family.
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The delusion "taken on" by the related person is very similar to the delusion of the person affected first.
Typically, the disorder occurs in a relationship
that has been somewhat isolated from others. Oftentimes the person who
develops the shared delusion is a passive partner. The disorder affects
women more often than men. Prior to the illness, the person is
otherwise healthy and the delusions are not caused by any other
explanation or illness. The delusions are usually non-bizarre, in that
they are delusions of things that could actually happen. (Bizarre
delusions are those of things that cannot happen in real life, such as
being able to fly.) Because symptoms of the disorder are similar to
other illnesses such as schizophrenia or delusional disorder,
professionals must first rule out other possibilities.
The cause of the disorder is unknown, although stress may be a factor.
Isolation of the relationship may also play a significant role. Because
the people suffering are often socially isolated, the illness may go
untreated.
When treatment does occur, separation of the individuals affected is
the first response. Other treatments for the disorder include
psychotherapy, family counseling, and medications. Antipsychotic
medications may be used for a short period if separation does not help.
Sedatives and tranquilizers may also be used to treat anxiety
associated with treatment and with the disorder. If the disorder is not
treated, it can become chronic. However, when treated, the outlook is
good for recovery.
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