The difference between "hearing voices" and the voice we all have in our head when we "talk to ourselves" lies in their origin, nature, and impact on a person's life.
Voice in our head (Internal dialogue/self-talk): This is a normal and common experience that most people have. It refers to the constant stream of thoughts, ideas, and self-talk that goes on within our minds. This internal dialogue is a way for our brains to process information, plan, solve problems, and reflect on past experiences. It's a natural part of our cognitive functioning and does not typically cause distress or interfere significantly with daily functioning.
Hearing voices (Auditory Hallucinations): This refers to the experience of hearing sounds, voices, or other auditory stimuli when there is no external source for those sensations. Hearing voices is not a typical or normal experience and can be a symptom of an underlying mental health condition, such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or other psychotic disorders. These voices are often perceived as distinct from the person's own thoughts and can be persistent, distressing, and disruptive to daily life.
The key differences are:
Origin: Internal dialogue is generated by your own mind and is a normal function of cognition. Hearing voices, on the other hand, is a perception of external stimuli that isn't actually present.
Nature: Internal dialogue is usually under your control and can be directed intentionally. The voices experienced in auditory hallucinations are often beyond the person's control and may be perceived as intrusive.
Impact: Internal dialogue is typically benign and may even be beneficial for problem-solving and decision-making. Hearing voices, especially when associated with mental health conditions, can be distressing, confusing, and may lead to difficulties in daily functioning.
It's important to note that hearing voices alone doesn't necessarily indicate a mental illness. Some people without any mental health conditions might experience brief and isolated auditory hallucinations without significant consequences. However, when hearing voices becomes frequent, intense, or causes distress or impairment, it's crucial to seek professional help for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate support. A mental health professional can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate guidance and treatment if necessary.