Why Do I Believe That My Body Parts Are Dead, Dying, Or Don’t Exist?

Do you experience nihilism? Nihilism is the belief that nothing has any value or meaning. You may feel as if you are dead or rotting away.

Do you feel anxious?

Are you experiencing hallucinations?

Do you experience hypochondria?

Do you feel guilty?

Are you preoccupied with hurting yourself or death?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have a serious problem. When someone suffers from Cotard delusion, he or she may experience a false belief that he/she or his/her body parts are dead, dying, or don’t exist. The condition usually occurs alongside other psychotic disorders or severe depression. People with Cotard delusion may stop taking care of themselves, which may lead to skin or teeth problems, and/or social isolation. Treatment for this type of disorder usually includes electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), medication, or behavioral therapy.

Unfortunately, you are displaying one or more symptoms typically seen among individuals who have Cotard delusion. It may be of high importance to seek medical support. People with Cotard delusion may feel like they are dead or rotting away, or like they’ve never existed. Some people feel this way about their whole body, others only feel it in regard to specific organs or limbs. Depression is very closely related to Cotard delusion. It’s important to know that Cotard delusion occurs alongside other mental illnesses, so it is likely that you receive more than one diagnosis. Treatment options are available and include electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), medication, or behavioral therapy.