Fugue
Fugue (medicine)
Fugue (pronounced: /fjuːɡ/) is a term used in medicine and psychology to describe a rare psychiatric disorder characterized by reversible amnesia for personal identity, including the memory, personality, and other identifying characteristics of individuality. The state is usually short-lived, ranging from hours to days, but can last months or longer.
Etymology
The term "fugue" comes from the Latin word "fuga" which means "flight". It was first used in the psychiatric sense by French physician Pierre Janet in the late 19th century to describe a state of "flight" from one's own identity.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of a fugue state is sudden and unexpected travel away from home or one's customary place of work, with inability to recall one's past. Other symptoms can include confusion, distress, and even the adoption of a new identity.
Causes
Fugue states are usually precipitated by a stressful episode, and there is often an associated dissociative disorder. They may also be caused by head trauma, adverse reactions to drugs, and other physical and mental health conditions.
Treatment
Treatment for fugue states typically involves psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication. The goal of treatment is to help the individual recall their forgotten memories and to learn coping strategies to prevent future fugue states.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fugue
- Wikipedia's article - Fugue
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