While I cannot diagnose whether you are personally experiencing delusional love, I can explain what it means based on the definition provided.
Delusional love is a condition where a person firmly believes their feelings of love are returned by someone, even when there is clear evidence showing the contrary.
According to the provided information:
Someone is said to be suffering from delusional love disorder when they feel that that their feelings of love are reciprocated, despite glaring evidence of this being not true.
Essentially, having a crush is normal. Thinking that crush loves you back when there's no strong indication might be hopeful thinking. However, when you believe they love you back despite clear and obvious evidence that contradicts this belief, it aligns with the description of delusional love disorder.
Key Characteristics of Delusional Love
The core feature, as highlighted in the definition, is the persistence of the belief in mutual love despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. This isn't just hoping or wishing; it's a fixed, false belief.
- Belief in Reciprocation: You are convinced the other person feels the same way you do.
- Disregard for Evidence: You ignore or misinterpret clear signs that show they do not share your feelings. This "glaring evidence" could be rejection, lack of interest, or even the person being in another relationship.
- Persistence: The belief remains strong despite reality.
Is It Just a Strong Crush or Delusional?
Distinguishing between intense feelings and a delusion can be challenging, but the key lies in how you process reality and evidence.
| Feature | Strong Crush / Hopeful Thinking | Potentially Delusional Love Disorder |
|---|---|---|
| Belief | You hope they feel the same. | You are certain they feel the same. |
| Evidence | You look for positive signs; acknowledge mixed/negative ones. | You disregard or explain away clear negative signs. |
| Reality Check | You can consider they might not be interested. | Your belief is unshakeable, even when directly contradicted. |
| Behavior | May pursue, but can accept rejection or disinterest over time. | May engage in persistent, sometimes intrusive, behaviors based on the false belief. |
Seeking Clarity
Self-diagnosis is not recommended for any mental health condition, including delusional love disorder. If you are concerned about your feelings and beliefs regarding someone, especially if they are causing distress or impacting your behavior, it is best to consult with a mental health professional. They can provide a proper assessment and guidance.
