Symptom 3. Identity Confusion: Losing One’s Self
An identity crisis is another significant symptom of dissociative fugue, presenting as a profound sense of confusion about who one is. This symptom is a consequence of severe memory loss, leading to an inability to remember one’s identity and personal details.
The individual may struggle to recall their name, age, occupation, or other personal information. They might fail to recognize themselves in the mirror, unable to link the reflection with their self-image. This crisis goes beyond memory lapse and enters the realm of identity loss, leading to significant distress and disorientation.
What makes this symptom even more challenging is that the individual may create a new identity, entirely separate from their original self. This newly adopted persona may have different traits, behaviors, and even a different name. The person may live as this new identity for an indefinite period, oblivious to their real identity. (3)
