Myths and misconceptions
Description: "Isn't it just fantasy?" - Common misconceptions about maladaptive daydreaming and why they can harm those affected.
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Teaser (Lead)
Maladaptive daydreaming is a relatively new concept - and that is precisely why there are so many misunderstandings surrounding it. Common misconceptions range from "It's just a lot of imagination" to "It's like schizophrenia". This article clarifies the most common myths, explains how they arise and shows why they can be so problematic for those affected.
Myths and misconceptions about maladaptive daydreaming
First, read the detailed main article, Maladaptive daydreaming - understanding, treating and overcoming it - a comprehensive guide
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The overview "Maladaptive daydreaming - causes, symptoms and help". This article dispels myths and misconceptions.
Myth 1: "It's just creativity or vivid imagination"
Reality: Maladaptive daydreaming differs significantly from normal daydreaming in terms of duration, intensity and lack of control. Standard fantasy promotes creativity and problem-solving, while MD becomes a burden.
Why does the myth arise? Creative people, such as authors or artists, often report that they "sink into" worlds of thought. This has a similar effect, but is qualitatively distinct.
Consequences: Those who reduce MD to a "creative gift" overlook the massive suffering and the risk of social isolation. Those affected feel that they are not taken seriously.
2nd myth: "This is schizophrenia or psychosis"
Reality: People with maladaptive daydreaming are aware that their fantasies are not real. They retain a connection to reality.
Difference: In psychosis, the boundary between fantasy and reality becomes blurred; delusions or hallucinations determine the experience. MD, on the other hand, is a conscious escape, albeit one that is difficult to control.
Problem: This equation reinforces stigmatisation. Many sufferers, therefore, avoid talking about their experiences for fear of being labelled "psychotic".
Myth 3: "It's a fad from TikTok & social media"
Reality: The term "maladaptive daydreaming" was coined by Eli Somer (2002), long before the advent of TikTok or Instagram.
Facts: Social media has made the phenomenon more visible. Those affected now report more openly in forums or on platforms such as Reddit (#MDCommunity). This is both an opportunity and a risk: sharing, yes, but also the risk of misinformation or self-diagnosis.
Consequences: Dismissing MD as an "internet trend" negates its real clinical relevance and prevents those affected from seeking serious help.
4th myth: "Everyone who daydreams intensely has MD"
Reality: Maladaptive daydreaming is not the same as daydreaming in general. Almost everyone drifts off mentally, but only a few experience it so intensely and obsessively that everyday life, school, work or relationships suffer as a result.
Crucially, MD is only diagnosed if the fantasies cause suffering and loss of function.
Example: A writer who spends hours creating scenes is different from someone who forgets obligations, food or sleep because they are "trapped" inside.
Myth 5: "You can just stop when you want to"
Reality: MD often works according to similar mechanisms as addictions: short-term relief reinforces the urge to repeat. The "kick" from the inner film creates cycles that are difficult to break free from.
Misunderstanding: Outsiders often perceive "daydreaming" as a lack of self-control. In fact, it is a compulsive pattern that requires therapeutic support.
Consequence: Such reproaches ("Just pull yourself together!") are an additional burden and reinforce feelings of guilt and shame.
Conclusion
Misunderstandings about maladaptive daydreaming are widespread. They often arise from comparisons with familiar concepts—creativity, psychosis, internet phenomena—but fall short. For those affected, this usually means stigmatisation and the feeling of not being taken seriously. A differentiated understanding is crucial: MD is neither a creative luxury nor a psychosis, but an independent psychological pattern with apparent symptoms and real challenges.