When experiencing auditory hallucinations, the sounds are perceived as if they are coming from external sources, even though there is no actual external stimulus causing the sensation. In other words, the person experiencing the hallucination hears sounds, voices, or other auditory stimuli as if they were real and happening in the external environment.
The distinction between internal and external perception is crucial here:
Internal perception: This refers to thoughts, ideas, or mental processes that occur within a person's mind and are not perceived through the external senses. For example, the "voice in your head" or your internal dialogue is an internal perception.
External perception: This refers to sensory experiences that are perceived through the external senses, such as seeing, hearing, smelling, touching, or tasting things in the outside world.
Auditory hallucinations, in contrast to internal thoughts or self-talk, are perceived externally, meaning the individual experiencing them believes they are hearing something in the world around them, even though there is no actual external sound or stimulus.
Auditory hallucinations can be quite distressing and are often associated with conditions such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, certain types of bipolar disorder, or other psychotic disorders. It's essential for individuals experiencing such hallucinations to seek professional help from a mental health provider for evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.