Hallucinations can happen for many reasons, including mental or physical health conditions, medication, lack of sleep, or substance use.

Common causes of hallucinations

Hallucinations are experiences where you sense things that aren’t really there. They can be linked to:

• Mental health conditions: Psychosis, schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and some personality disorders can all include hallucinations.
• Physical health conditions: Delirium, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease are known to cause hallucinations.
• Sleep deprivation: Not getting enough sleep over time can lead to hallucinations.
• Medication side effects: Some medicines can cause hallucinations. If this happens, get urgent advice from your GP before making any changes.
• Drugs and alcohol: Using drugs like amphetamines, cocaine, LSD, or ecstasy, or withdrawing from alcohol or drugs, can trigger hallucinations.
• Stress and other factors: High stress or other health issues may also play a part.
  
  

What should I do next?

If you’re experiencing hallucinations, it’s important to speak to a healthcare professional. They can help you find the cause and get the right support.

For more information, visit our page on psychosis and hallucinations. You can also read about living with mental illness.

Get urgent help

If you need immediate support, contact NHS 111.

We know how difficult it can feel when you’re worried, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn next. Our Get Help Now page brings together practical guidance, reassuring information, and step-by-step tools to help you navigate a mental health crisis.