There are many reasons why someone might hear voices, including: 

• Stress or anxiety
• Traumatic experiences
• Sleep deprivation
• Certain physical health conditions
• Mental health conditions like psychosis or schizophrenia
  
  

What does it mean to hear voices? 

Hearing voices involves auditory hallucinations, where you might notice sounds, music, or speech that others around you cannot hear. Sometimes, these voices feel like they’re inside your head and at other times they seem to come from outside.  

Around 1 in 10 people will hear voices at some point in their lives, and they can be positive, negative, or neutral. Everyone’s experience is unique.

What can I do if I find hearing voices distressing? 

There are practical steps you can take if you’re hearing voices: 

• Talk to someone you trust about your experiences 
• Try distraction techniques, such as listening to music or going for a walk 
• Keep a diary to track when the voices appear and what might trigger them 
• Seek support from a mental health professional  
  
  

Treatments can include medication, talking therapies, and peer support. Everyone’s needs are different, so it’s about finding what works best for you. 

If the voices are distressing or interfering with your daily life, reaching out for support is a positive step. You might want to speak to your GP or visit our advice pages here.