Chinese student diagnosed with delusional love disorder, thinks ‘all the girls in school like me.’ Know all about the condition

A bizarre case of delusional love disorder has emerged online, involving a 20-year-old Chinese university student. The student, referred to as Liu, was diagnosed with the condition which manifests as a belief that “all the girls in school like me,” Liu told Lu Zhenjiao, a doctor from Huai’an No.3 People’s Hospital.

Dr Ankita Priydarshini, consultant – psychiatrist & behavioural medicine, founder & clinical head – Thriving Minds, Dehradun, said the disorder can be characterised by the patient developing strong romantic feelings for someone else, with those feelings being based on unrealistic or false beliefs.

“Ever had a crush on someone who didn’t feel the same way? Well, imagine taking that crush to the extreme. Delusional love disorder is when someone is head over heels for someone else, but they are convinced that the other person loves them back, even when there’s no real evidence for it. It is like living in a romantic fantasy that just isn’t true,” explained Dr Priyadarshini in an interaction with indianexpress.com. 

According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Liu’s symptoms began in February and steadily worsened. He exhibited inappropriate behaviour towards female classmates, fueled by his delusion that they reciprocated his feelings. Dr Zhenjiao, who treated Liu, reported that the student believes himself to be the university’s most attractive man. Despite repeated rejections, Liu remained convinced the women were merely shy.

What are the symptoms?

Beyond the delusional belief, Liu displayed additional concerning behaviours: staying up all night, lacking focus in class, and spending money impulsively. These symptoms, along with his initial delusion, led to the diagnosis of delusional love disorder.

Dr Priyadarshini expanded on the other symptoms the person might have:

1. Unshakable Beliefs: Individuals with this disorder maintain unwavering beliefs about the mutual nature of their love, even in the face of rejection or indifference from the other person. It’s when someone firmly believes their crush is their soulmate, despite no real evidence. For example, thinking a co-worker smiles because they secretly love them.

2. Stalking Behaviors: They might engage in stalking behaviours, such as repeatedly visiting the person’s workplace or home, incessantly calling or texting them, or even sending gifts or letters all in hopes of winning their affection.

3. Mood Swings: Their emotions can fluctuate dramatically depending on their interactions with their love interest. Picture feeling on top of the world one minute because you believe your crush looked your way, then crashing down when they ignore you or reject you. It is like riding an emotional rollercoaster without a seatbelt.

Imbalances in brain chemistry or genetic predispositions may also play a role in the onset of this disorder, Priyadarshini added. (A still from You)

What causes the disorder?

Dr Zhenjiao suggested a seasonal link to the disorder, with increased cases observed in spring (March-April). He attributed this to changeable weather impacting hormone levels, leading to hyperactivity and sleep problems in patients. More severe cases can involve excessive talking, hypersexuality, and even aggression, he told SCMP.

According to Dr Priyadarshini, past experiences of rejection, trauma, or abandonment can contribute to the development of delusional love disorder. “For instance, someone who has experienced multiple failed relationships may be more susceptible to developing unrealistic beliefs about love,” she said, noting that even cultural norms and societal pressures can influence us to idealise romantic relationships, leading to misinterpret social cues and interactions. “We’re bombarded with movies, songs, and stories that make us believe in fairy tale romances, which can mess with our perception of reality.”

Imbalances in brain chemistry or genetic predispositions may also play a role in the onset of this disorder, Priyadarshini added.

Is there a treatment available?

Treatment often involves a combination of therapy and medication, Dr Priyadarshini said.

“Therapy can help the person understand and challenge their delusional beliefs, while medication, such as antipsychotics, can help manage symptoms like mood swings and delusions,” she explained.

Having supportive friends and family can also make a big difference in helping them come back to reality and find healthier ways to cope with their feelings. “It is like having a team of love detectives working together to untangle the mess of emotions and find a path to healing. Remember, seeking help is the first step towards recovery.”

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