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Psychiatrists make a distinction between the milder paranoid personality disorder and the more debilitating delusional (paranoid) disorder.

The hallmark of this disorder is the presence of a persistent, non-bizarre delusion without symptoms of any other mental disorder.

Delusions are firmly held beliefs that are untrue, not shared by others in the culture, and not easily modifiable.

Paranoid people's mistrustfulness makes treatment of the condition difficult. Treatment with appropriate antipsychotic drugs may help the paranoid patient overcome some symptoms. The regular opportunity to express suspicions and self-doubts afforded by psychotherapy can help the paranoid patient function in the community. Even though their paranoid views are apparently unshakable, various treatments appear effective in improving social functioning, so that they do not often require lengthy hospitalization.