Online Therapy for Conspiracy Theory Beliefs UK

Anecdotal accounts suggest that therapists are increasingly seeing clients with conspiracy theory beliefs.

Psychotherapeutic interventions can be matched to five stages of ideological conviction.

Psychotherapy must address the mistrust and misinformation that lies at the root of conspiracy theory beliefs.

As always, psychotherapy offers the most benefit to those who are looking for help and open to change. The real challenge and unmet need of conspiracy theory belief can be illustrated by the old joke that asks, “How many psychologists does it take to change a lightbulb?” Answer: “Just one, but the lightbulb has to really want to change.”

Conspiracy theory addiction is a behavioural addiction that can subtly impact how individuals perceive events and their attitudes. Unlike substance-based addictions, this type of addiction involves engaging in behaviours—such as obsessively researching conspiracy theories—that the person believes will yield rewards. Here are some key points about conspiracy theory addiction:

Belief in Conspiracy Theories: Conspiracy theories involve believing that a secret organisation or influential individual is responsible for a specific event or circumstance. Surprisingly, about 50% of Americans hold at least one conspiracy theory belief.

Common Themes: Conspiracy theories span various topics, including politics, social events, and even paranormal phenomena. Some examples include the belief that certain celebrities are immortal vampires or that a small group plans to overthrow the government.

Negative Impact: Rather than helping individuals cope with negative feelings, conspiracy theory addiction can create a cycle of distrust and disempowerment. People who strongly believe in these theories may experience anxiety, a perceived loss of control, and a need to connect unrelated events.

Psychological Factors: Research suggests that feelings of anxiety and a sense of disenfranchisement make people more susceptible to believing in conspiracies. These emotions are prevalent in many Americans today.

Balancing Critical Thinking: While some conspiracy theories have turned out to be true, it’s essential to analyse information critically and distinguish between false theories and real threats.

Remember that conspiracy theory addiction isn’t a mental illness, but it can significantly impact a person’s daily life and relationships. Therapists approach this delicate topic with curiosity, empathy, and patience, aiming to help clients find clarity and function effectively even when dealing with alternative worldviews. If you or someone you know struggles with conspiracy theory addiction, seeking professional support is crucial.

When people discuss conspiracy theories with their therapists, it’s a delicate situation. While these beliefs aren’t considered a mental illness, they can consume individuals, affecting work, relationships, and sleep. Therapists must tread carefully—pushing clients to defend their beliefs risks breaking trust, while saying nothing may hinder addressing the anxiety and paranoia that fervent conspiracy theories can cause. The focus is on curiosity, compassion, empathy, and patience in navigating this murky territory. Ultimately, therapists aim to help clients find clarity and function effectively, even when dealing with alternative worldviews. Anecdotal accounts suggest that therapists are increasingly encountering patients with conspiracy theory beliefs, but there’s no universal treatment approach.