What to Say and Do for False Beliefs, Delusions & Hallucinations
February 2026 Workshop - Replay & Cheatsheets
Downloads & Printables
What to Say to Respond to Delusions (also works for False Beliefs):
Quick scripts to de-escalate and move forward if you’re tired of being pulled into accusations (“You stole it,” “You’re lying,” “You’re trying to hurt me”), without arguing, defending yourself, or trying to “prove” reality.
Validation lines that don’t agree with the story (so they feel heard, but you don’t reinforce the false belief).
Simple redirection options to move the moment along once emotions drop—so you save time and energy.
What to Say to Respond to Hallucinations:
How to respond in a way that reduces fear and keeps everyone safe, without accidentally making it worse, so their nervous system settles instead of escalating (restoring the peace.)
What to say when they’re calm and you don’t want to overreact or intensify it.
Common phrases to avoid that backfire (“There’s nothing there,” “Stop it,” “You’re imagining things”), and what to say instead.