Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS)

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and support available

Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is a condition that can cause people with sight loss to see things that are not actually there. These are known as visual hallucinations. While this can feel worrying or confusing, CBS is not a mental health condition and does not mean you are losing touch with reality. It is a recognised response of the brain to reduced vision.

What is Charles Bonnet Syndrome?

Charles Bonnet Syndrome occurs when the brain creates images to fill in gaps caused by vision loss. When the eyes stop sending clear information, the brain may generate its own images, which can appear very real. These hallucinations are purely visual and do not involve sound, smell, or touch.

People with CBS are usually aware that what they are seeing is not real, although it can still feel unsettling. The condition is most common in people with significant sight loss caused by conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or cataracts.

Symptoms of Charles Bonnet Syndrome

Symptoms involve seeing things that are not present and can vary from person to person. These may include:

Simple patterns, shapes, or flashes of light
Detailed images such as people, animals, or objects
Scenes or landscapes that appear suddenly
Hallucinations that last for a few seconds or several minutes

These experiences can happen at any time but are often more noticeable in low light or when you are feeling tired or relaxed.

What causes Charles Bonnet Syndrome?

CBS is caused by reduced or lost vision rather than a problem with mental health. When the brain receives less visual information from the eyes, it may compensate by creating images.

Risk factors include:

Significant sight loss
Eye conditions such as AMD, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy
Sudden changes in vision
Social isolation or lack of visual stimulation
How is Charles Bonnet Syndrome treated?

There is no specific cure for CBS, but understanding the condition can help reduce anxiety and distress. For many people, symptoms become less frequent over time.

Ways to manage symptoms may include:

Changing lighting conditions
Moving your eyes or blinking to interrupt hallucinations
Standing up or changing position
Reducing stress and fatigue
Talking about your experiences with a professional or support service

In some cases, if hallucinations are very distressing, a healthcare professional may discuss additional support or treatment options.

Living with Charles Bonnet Syndrome

Living with CBS can feel confusing at first, especially if you are unsure why it is happening. Knowing that the condition is linked to sight loss—and not mental illness—can be reassuring. Many people find that talking openly about their experiences helps them feel more in control.

Making sure you have regular eye checks and managing any underlying eye conditions can also help. Support from organisations, family, and professionals can make a big difference in coping with CBS.

When to seek help

You should seek advice if you begin experiencing visual hallucinations, especially if they are new, distressing, or difficult to manage. It is important to rule out other possible causes and get reassurance about your symptoms. An optician or GP can help guide you to the right support.

Support is available

Experiencing hallucinations can feel unsettling, but you are not alone. Charles Bonnet Syndrome is more common than many people realise, and support is available to help you understand and manage the condition. Our team can provide guidance, reassurance, and practical advice tailored to your needs.

Frequently asked questions
Is Charles Bonnet Syndrome a mental health condition?

No, CBS is not a mental health condition. It is caused by changes in vision and how the brain responds to reduced visual input.

Do the hallucinations go away?

For many people, hallucinations become less frequent over time, although this can vary from person to person.

Should I tell someone if I experience hallucinations?

Yes. It’s important to speak to a healthcare professional so they can confirm the cause and provide reassurance and support.

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