What are delusions?

Delusions are defined as firmly held false beliefs that persist despite clear and substantial evidence contradicting them. Individuals experiencing delusions might cling to these beliefs intensely and are often unable to consider alternative explanations or recognize their viewpoints as erroneous. This condition often appears in various mental health disorders, including psychotic disorders, and is marked by a significant disconnect from reality.

Understanding delusions is critical for counselors and mental health professionals, as it influences the approaches to treatment and support offered to clients. The other options describe different psychological phenomena—hallucinations involve perceiving things that are not present; emotional issues can arise temporarily from substance use but do not constitute delusions; and mood changes pertain to emotional regulation rather than the unyielding belief system that defines delusions. Hence, the clarity and specificity of the definition in the selected answer make it the correct choice.