Can anxiety disorder cause hallucinations or auditory hallucinations?

Feb 08, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I keep hearing someone calling my name, but when I turn around, no one is there. Can anxiety disorder cause auditory hallucinations or illusions?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhu Gang
Can anxiety disorders cause hallucinations or auditory hallucinations? Auditory hallucinations are primarily associated with schizophrenia and are commonly seen in that condition. However, under conditions of severe stress or anxiety, hallucinations may also occur. Symptoms such as tension, irritability, restlessness, and uneasiness can appear, along with various autonomic nervous system disturbances, including dizziness, headaches, palpitations, chest tightness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, frequent urination, urgency of urination, hand tremors, and sweating. If auditory hallucinations occur, the underlying cause should be promptly identified and effectively treated.