| It
is quite common for people to have conversations with themselves,
talking to an imaginary voice that they know comes from within
themselves, or singing along to a tune that suddenly pops
into their heads. This is very different to the experience
of hearing voices that seem real because they are coming from
somewhere outside ourselves, but which others do not appear
to hear.
People
who hear voices often find that they have to deal with another
world that claims all their attention. Listening to the voices,
or trying to ignore what they are saying may make the person
appear to be confused by their surroundings or distracted
from even the easiest conversations, making it difficult to
carry out the most everyday task.
If you
think that you may be hearing voices you may be confused because
the voices you hear seem very real. They may be calling your
name or having a conversation with you and using words that
are unfamiliar, but when you look around there is no one there.
Perhaps you are over-hearing conversations or arguments making
you feel as though you have a super-sonic hearing ability.
Sometimes the voices may tell you to do things that you do
not want to do, such as leaving a party that you are enjoying,
and this can seem especially frightening.
If
you are hearing voices you may feel:
• confused and anxious.
• frightened, even if the voices that you hear seem
friendly or familiar and appear to be very real
• alone – you may be feeling vulnerable or feel
unable to share with others what you are experiencing.
• exhausted because you just cannot switch off what
you are hearing
If you think you may be hearing voices you can:
•
Talk to your GP
•
Talk to your family and friends. This may be difficult at
first but their support can help to make your life easier
and help your confidence, especially in social situations.
•
Find a support group where you can share your experiences
with other people who hear voices. This will help you to feel
that you are not alone and will help you to learn from other
voice hearers how to cope and recognise situations that may
be difficult for you.
Related
links
For
more information about hearing
voices try:
For
other sources of help:
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