Symptom 15. Altered Sense of Self: A Shifting Identity
An altered sense of self is a distinguishing symptom of dissociative fugue. Individuals experiencing this disorder often undergo significant changes in their sense of identity. They may assume a new identity during their fugue state, completely different from their original one.
This altered sense of self can be extremely confusing for the individual. They may struggle to reconcile their original identity with their new one, leading to profound identity confusion. This confusion can be distressing, often leading to feelings of fear, helplessness, and disorientation.
This symptom highlights the significant identity disruptions associated with dissociative fugue. It underscores the need for psychological interventions to help individuals navigate their shifting identities and manage the resulting emotional turmoil. Therapists can use strategies like identity-oriented psychotherapy to help individuals understand and integrate their altered sense of self into their overall identity.
Navigating this altered sense of self can be incredibly challenging. It can impact the individual’s personal relationships, professional life, and overall quality of life.(15)
