Examples Of Paranoid Beliefs

The word paranoid, according to Advanced American Dictionary, is defined as “believing that you cannot trust other people, that other people want to harm you, or that you are always in danger.” Paranoid belief could be a consequence of a stressful situation and may affect people’s behavior. Thus, people who experience such problems are usually frightened that they are always in danger. Some are paranoid around dogs since they see dogs as a potential danger. Others are paranoid of staying home alone, believing that someone could break into the house and harm them. However, all of the paranoid beliefs have one main similarity: they are buried deep in the subconscious. People clearly understand that their paranoid beliefs are irrational; however, to get rid of them is extremely difficult. For me, the irrational belief of getting into a car accident is the main paranoid belief that persists over the years. My parents used to travel frequently since they liked to visit new places every time. Therefore, family vacations were a norm for my family, especially during the summer time. My brother and I enjoyed the time
Every long drive is challenging for me since I am afraid that I could fall asleep and another accident could happen. Thinking that staying awake and watching the road would protect me from a potential accident is irrational, but I am helpless with that. I can watch the road for hours, paying close attention to crazy drivers and making some what if scenarios in my mind. Usually, I make a prediction about a potential accident and its consequences, and this process keeps me awake and gives the feeling of control. No one can convince me to take a nap. I will be always watching the road and thinking about a possible danger - a car accident. Clearly, my paranoid belief takes over my mind at the unconscious level, hindering the conscious to make a rational decision to close my eyes and fall