Delusions with religious content (DRC).
DSM-IV-TR offers no specific guidelines for assessing DRC vs nondelusional religious beliefs.11 There is risk of pathologizing religious beliefs when listening to content alone.11-15 Instead, focus on the conviction, pervasiveness,2 uniqueness or bizarreness, and associated emotional distress of the delusion to the patient (Table 1).2,12,16-18
In the context of the patient’s spiritual history, deviations from conventional religious beliefs and practices are important factors in determining whether a religious belief is authentic or delusional. Involving family members and/or spiritual care professionals (eg, chaplains and clergy) can be especially helpful when making this differentiation.16,17 In the hospital, chaplains often are familiar with a variety of faith traditions and may provide important insight into the patient’s beliefs. In the community, clergy members from the patient’s faith also may provide valuable perspective.
Similar to how having a basic familiarity with a patient’s culture can improve care, a better understanding of a patient’s spiritual or religious beliefs and practices can build rapport and the therapeutic alliance.16,17 This is particularly important with patients with DRC because these individuals often have a poor therapeutic alliance and engagement with providers.19 Because many psychiatrists have limited time and may not be familiar with every patient’s spiritual or religious background, consultation with spiritual care professionals may be helpful.
http://www.currentpsychiatry.com/specialty-focus/schizophrenia-other-psychotic-disorders/article/how-to-care-for-patients-who-have-delusions-with-religious-content/c4d09baf5dd83ef913af3d6794e0d3b9.html
The gymnastics in that excerpt are Spectacular!
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