Some research studies group non-verbal vocalizations together with verbal hallucinations (“voices”), while others categorize them with sounds and noises. They can also take the form of unintelligible or garbled speech-like vocalizations. Auditory Non-Verbal VocalizationsĪuditory hallucinations can be vocal but not in the form of clear words, such as whispers, screams, “pssts,” whistling, and humming. Some experience the voices as announcing to others one’s private inner thoughts. Voices may range from a single voice to multiple voices, and such voices may be directed to the individual hallucinating or conversing with each other. One study found that 26% of 160 patients with psychosis found their auditory hallucinations to actually be pleasurable. Such voices may be pleasant and conversational or command-like and frightening, potentially influencing people to behave in an unusual or disruptive way. The three main types of auditory hallucinations include: Auditory Verbal HallucinationsĪuditory verbal hallucinations are faulty perceptions of one or more voices speaking.

For example, verbal hallucinations are most common in schizophrenia, while music-related hallucinations are more common in conditions like tinnitus. The form and content of auditory hallucinations can vary widely among individuals with different cultural, social, and personal influences, as well as the condition that causes them. Auditory hallucinations can also occur together with other types of hallucinations, like visual or tactile, known as multimodal hallucinations. Auditory Hallucination TypesĪuditory hallucinations can occur in a few main ways: Verbal vocalizations (voices speaking comprehensible words), non-verbal vocalizations (laughing, humming, whistling, whispering), and non-vocal sounds and music. 13 However, it is important to note that in some cases, auditory hallucinations can be a symptom of a psychiatric or neurological condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. 12 Individuals who are hypervigilant, such as a new mother thinking she heard her baby cry (when it may not have), are prime candidates for experiencing a benign hallucination. Research suggests that as many as 65% of non-clinical individuals may experience at least one auditory hallucination in their lifetime. Hallucinatory experiences are generally not a cause for concern, especially if they are infrequent and not disruptive of daily living. 11 In some cultures or spiritual circles, ‘voice-hearers’ are revered and even trained to hone this ability. One study found that 80% of bereaving individuals report hallucinations within a month of their loved one’s death. bereavement, sleep deprivation, sensory deprivation). 1,2,3,4 Can Auditory Hallucinations Be Normal?ĭespite hallucinations being a hallmark psychotic symptom, it is actually common for people to experience such faulty perceptions in certain non-clinical circumstances, such as when falling asleep (i.e., hypnagogic hallucinations) or waking up ( hypnopompic hallucinations), or during extreme physiological or psychological stress (i.e. Auditory hallucinations are the most common type in people with and without mental health disorders. Hallucinations should not be confused with illusions or misperceptions of actual stimuli. Although it may seem like the sound comes from one’s surroundings, it is actually generated by the brain itself. An auditory hallucination is when you hear sounds or voices that are not actually present.

Command auditory hallucinations