Dissociative Amnesia - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

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Some people with dissociative amnesia forget some but not all events over a period of time; others cannot recall their entire previous life or forget things as they occur. The main symptom is memory loss. Some people with this disorder also might appear confused and suffer from depression and/or anxiety. Oters symptoms is emotional distress and mild depression. Dissociative amnesia has been linked to overwhelming stress, which might be the result of traumatic events—such as war, abuse, accidents or disasters—that the person has experienced or witnessed. Treatment of amnesia depends on the root cause of amnesia and is handled on an individual basis. Psychotherapy can be helpful for amnesia caused by emotional trauma. Hypnosis or a medication called Pentothal (thiopental) can sometimes help to restore the memories. Psychotherapy can help an individual deal with the trauma associated with the recalled memories. Common sense approaches include wearing a helmet , using automobile seat belts, and avoiding excessive alcohol or drug use. Brain infections should be treated swiftly and aggressively to minimize the damage due to swelling.

Causes of Dissociative Amnesia

Common Causes and Risk factors of Dissociative Amnesia

• Stress.
• Dementia.
• Traumatic events.
• Infection.
• Seizure disorders.
• Korsakoff's syndrome.
• Transient global amnesia.

Signs and Symptoms of Dissociative Amnesia

Common Sign and Symptoms of Dissociative Amnesia

• Memory loss.
• Cofusion.
• Emotional distress.
• Mild depression.

Treatment for Dissociative Amnesia

Common Treatment for Dissociative Amnesia

• Treatment of amnesia depends on the root cause of amnesia. Psychotherapy can be helpful for amnesia caused by emotional trauma.
• Hypnosis or a medication called Pentothal (thiopental) can sometimes help to restore the memories.
• Common sense approaches include wearing a helmet , using automobile seat belts, and avoiding excessive alcohol or drug use.
• Brain infections should be treated swiftly and aggressively to minimize the damage due to swelling.
• Tranquilizers or antidepressants for the anxiety and/or depression that often accompany dissociative disorders.
• Creative arts can help you increase self-awareness, cope with symptoms and traumatic experiences, and foster positive changes.