What is a delusion anyway?

Editor’s note: This is a reprinted column from Jack Purcell’s “On the Journey” archives. It originally appeared in The Star in 2013.

The dictionary defines delusion as a false belief held despite invalidating evidence. It goes on to say that it is the result of self-deception. 

Delusion is often found among those who have a mental illness. In the event you are feeling off the hook in this regard, think again. It is certainly not limited to the folks in the psychiatrist's office.