What term refers to the experience of hearing or seeing things that are not recognized by others?

The experience of hearing or seeing things that are not recognized by others is referred to as hallucinations. Hallucinations involve sensory experiences that occur without any external stimulus; individuals may hear voices, see imaginary figures, or even feel sensations that others cannot perceive. This phenomenon is most commonly discussed in the context of various mental health disorders, including schizophrenia and severe mood disorders.

In contrast, delusions involve false beliefs that are firmly held despite contradictory evidence; the individual might believe that they are being persecuted or that they possess exceptional abilities. Melancholia pertains to a state of profound sadness or depression, often characterized by a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed, and hysteria historically refers to a range of psychological disturbances, primarily characterized by excessive emotional responses or conversions of psychological distress into physical symptoms.