Auditory hallucinations, also known as paracusia, are a type of hallucination where individuals perceive sounds or voices in the absence of any external auditory stimuli. In other words, they hear voices or sounds that are not actually there.
The voices experienced in auditory hallucinations can be perceived as coming from either inside the person's head (internal) or outside the person's head (external). Some individuals may report hearing voices that seem to originate from within their own mind, as if their thoughts are being spoken aloud or someone is talking to them inside their head. Others may perceive the voices as if they are coming from outside their body or from objects or people around them, even though no one is actually speaking.
Auditory hallucinations can be associated with various conditions, including but not limited to schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, psychotic disorders, and certain neurological conditions. They can be distressing and have a significant impact on a person's life. It's essential for individuals experiencing auditory hallucinations to seek professional help from mental health specialists for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.