Causes and risk factors
The exact causes are not known however various stressful events or trauma which an individual undergoes during lifetime can evoke the disorder. Certain factors can trigger the complaints are family violence, war, rape or physical abuse, death of loved ones, some accidents, and foster care can cause stress disorder. Overuse of certain substances like drugs and alcohol also contribute to the causation.
Clinical presentation:
There are various forms of dissociative disorders like dissociative amnesia, depersonalization disorder, dissociative identity disorder, and dissociative fugue. Dissociative personality disorder is the most common among it. In dissociative fugue there is sudden disturbances seen. The person has confusion about self personality. Some may complaint of lack of emotions, people often state “I have emotions but I do not feel any of them”. There is lack of self identity; they feel they are no one. In dissociative personality disorder, previously known as multiple personality disorder person exhibit all together different behavior at different times. In some cases the person unexpectedly travels away from home or work place and is unable to recall the past events of life.
Such type is known as depersonalization disorder. The person suffers from complaints of anxiety and depression. There is temporary loss of memory. The individual does not remember the places, family and certain events of life. Mood swings, sleep disorders, eating disorders, addiction to alcohol or drugs, various health problems can be associated. The person detaches himself from the surrounding. Suicidal or homicidal thoughts may supervene.
Investigations:
Diagnosis can be made on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and on the basis of complete psychiatric evaluation. Reviewing of the history is the most essential step. All the details are obtained from the family and friends. Close observation in such cases is essential. Investigations can be advised in cases where the doctor suspects any pathology.
Treatment:
Anti psychotic or anti depressant medications are the first lines of treatment in such cases. Psychotherapy plays a major role in this. It comprises of counseling and interpersonal therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy has found to be effective in such cases. Simultaneously timely help not only from the doctors but also from the family can help to overcome and minimize the suffering. Indulgence in positive recreational activity, inculcating meditational and spiritual support, getting involved in positive recreational activity is the certain steps to be implemented.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms.
