"Sometimes it's nice to chat with a smart interlocutor," joke those who talk to themselves. In most cases, this is quite normal, but there are certain signs indicating possible pathologies, at which point a person should consult a psychotherapist. In what situations is talking to oneself considered normal?
Psychologists distinguish between two levels: neurotic and psychotic. People may talk to themselves out of habit: if a child sees their mother mumbling to herself, they remember this behavior. Over time, this habit persists, and the adult begins to engage in a monologue 'in the air' during moments of dissatisfaction, irritation, or resentment. In such cases, a psychologist can help find alternative ways to express their feelings.
Additionally, a person may experience fatigue and emotional burnout. If in such a situation they start talking to themselves, it may simply be a protective reaction of the body. To get rid of this phenomenon, it is enough to take a good rest.
Sometimes people revisit past events and model dialogues, expressing everything they want to an imaginary interlocutor. This happens when in real life they were deprived of the opportunity to speak out, and the need for it remains. People may also imagine conversations with certain characters from their dreams. If such thoughts are distressing, psychologists can again help to close the gestalt.
When Talking to Oneself Becomes a Disease
If a person starts hearing voices that comment on their actions or criticize them, and even worse — command them to do something, this is already a sign of illness. The voices may demand dangerous actions, such as jumping out of a window or harming oneself. A person may engage in dialogue with them, argue, and not immediately react to the surrounding reality, as they are focused on their words.
Such individuals may be excessively contemplative, take a long time to make decisions, and turn to their inner voice for advice. In this case, urgent treatment in a psychiatric clinic is required.
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