How are hallucinations defined?

Hallucinations are defined as perceptions that occur in the absence of any external sensory input. This means that a person experiencing a hallucination perceives something—such as hearing voices, seeing things, or feeling certain sensations—without any corresponding stimulus present in the environment. These experiences can occur in any sensory modality (auditory, visual, tactile, etc.) and are often vivid and realistic to the individual experiencing them.

Understanding this definition is crucial in the context of counseling, as hallucinations may be linked to various mental health conditions, substance use disorders, or other medical issues. Recognizing that these perceptions do not have a basis in reality can help a counselor provide appropriate support and interventions for clients struggling with such experiences.