It has long been speculated that the phenomenon we call demonic possession is actually a form of psychosis. Some say demonic possession doesn’t exist at all, claiming that anytime we think we see it, it’s actually mental illness. Let me tell you, as someone who received extensive, unhelpful treatment for psychosis: That is wrong. It happened to me. It actually was demonic possession.
Yes, demons are real. While it’s comforting to believe that cases of possession are merely manifestations of schizophrenia, this complacency will only prolong the demon’s stay in your (or your child’s or dog’s) body. To avoid misdiagnosis, it is important to be educated on the differences between the two, as the experiences can look alike. Here are some tips from my experience.
In demonic possession, antipsychotic medications never work. In psychosis, they sometimes work. If antipsychotics are ineffective, you can’t yet rule out a demon.
Examine the person’s language. Do they use profanity often? Do they pair that profanity with religiosity? A person in a psychotic state could easily talk about God in bizarre ways, but the more extreme this language is, the likelier it is that a demon is present. There are religious ways to provoke a demon too. Try saying, “The power of Christ compels you,” and see how they react. Did they react aggressively or like they were in severe pain? If so, go further. Bring them a virgin to recite incantations. If they appear unaffected, then it’s probably psychosis. But if they snarl like a large cat, you are closer to a conclusive assessment.
Last, look for outward behavioral signs of possession. For instance, when I was possessed, I said I could speak Russian backwards. Doctors treated this as a delusion, but then I did it. I spoke Russian backwards for them while doing cartwheels up the wall and spinning my head a full 360 degrees, mind you. At that point they knew dealing with me was beyond their authority. They had to send me to a nun.