What Is Dissociative Fugue?
9. Prognosis
Sooner or later, a dissociative fugue state typically ends on its own. Because the fugue is a defensive state that the mind goes into for protection, the real problems often begin for the patient once the fugue state is over. Patients may turn to self-harm or suicide because of the deep feelings of shame they feel over their condition. For this reason, it is important for a person with dissociative fugue to receive treatment as soon as possible, especially if he or she demonstrates this type of ideation.
If dissociative fugue goes untreated, the episodes can become recurrent. This can cause severe disruption to the patient’s life, as well as those of family members. Prompt treatment for dissociative fugue reduces the probability that symptoms will recur.
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