Charles Bonnet Syndrome has been widely talked about following the television program, Coronation Street, screening a storyline about the condition. The visions experienced with this condition vary from person to person and range from simple lights or patterns to complex images, which are often distressing.
We are aware several Deafblind Scotland members suffer with this condition and had contact with Michael who has shared his experiences.
“Living with Charles Bonnet Syndrome is really not nice, it is at times terrifying.
On a daily basis I see a ghost, it looks real but I know it’s not real, nevertheless it is still scary. In my living room, I see a person walking by me constantly; when I’m in a bath the back of the door turns into scary faces; the box that turns on the shower turns into a scary face. I hear my daughters shouting on me even though they are not in my flat and finally I see animals and dead faces when I close my eyes in bed.
Outside experiences can be just as scary. I once saw three big rocks beside a fence, the longer I stared at them they changed into a limousine. I had to ask my Guide Communicator if it was real. I have seen cars moving when they are not moving; and motors being set alight but in reality they are not. I find it hard to know what is real and what is not real and is in fact, my imagination. Sometimes, I find it reassuring that the Guide will verify what is real.”
We are pleased awareness is being raised about this distressing condition. Anyone with sight loss who is experiencing visions or hallucinations should seek immediate help from an eye health professional.
