Top 3 myths about hearing voices
Hearing voices is a common feature of psychosis, something we’re currently researching. We thought it would be useful to explore some common myths around hearing voices. We’ve also included some great resources if you’d like more help and support.
Myth 1 - It’s very rare to hear voices
Figures vary, depending where you look, but the Mental Health Foundation suggest anywhere between 5 and 28% of the general population hear voices. In a room with 10 people in, that might look something like this:
Have you ever heard someone shout your name in the street, only to find there’s no-one there? Or heard the voice of a loved one who’s passed away?If we include these experiences, that figure goes up to 75%! So anyone who hasn’t heard voices of some sort is actually in a minority.
Myth 2 - There’s no hope of recovery
Recovery in mental health is not necessarily about a cure - it’s about regaining control, building resilience and living a meaningful life. We really like this moving and uplifting TEDTalk from Dr Eleanor Longden — herself a voice-hearer — demonstrating that recovery from hearing voices is entirely possible:
Myth 3 - Everyone who hears voices has schizophrenia
Whilst hearing voices is a common feature of schizophrenia, there can be other causes too. The Hearing Voices Network celebrates a ‘festival of explanations’ offering support and information to anyone, regardless of a diagnosis.
In a recent newspaper interview, Dr Longden said of voices:
“we should not immediately think of it as a sign of insanity or something to be ashamed of”
People who hear voices or have psychosis will have a range of different experiences and be affected in different ways. We’re supporting the University of Oxford in trying to understand how psychosis affects people and the kind of help people would find valuable.
If you have been diagnosed with psychosis or schizophrenia and would like to complete the research questionnaire, contact our research nurse Jo for more details: email crnteam@nottshc.nhs.uk / text or phone 07920453729
Some people find it helpful to speak to others having similar experiences. The Hearing Voices Network can help you find a local support group.
The following organisations offer more information about hearing voices.
