Part III, by Robert Ponsonby

Part III, by Robert Ponsonby

Colby Kirkland - Are there any treatments for Dissociative Fugue, such as a particular therapy or medication?

Dr. Sturzendorf – Yes well it is believed, that similar to PTSD, that alternative treatment for a dissociative disorder, such as Fugue, might benefit from antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication. But the predominant treatment is Psychotherapy, sometimes involving hypnosis, and is often effective in the treatment of dissociative fugue. Patients, with support from therapists, are encouraged to remember past events by learning to face and cope with the stressful experiences that precipitated the fugue. During Psychotherapy, the patient is forced to remember that events that led to the episode often result in in grief, depression, fear, anger, remorse, and other psychological states that require more therapy. Although I must say that for most cases efforts to restore memory of the fugue period are often unsuccessful.

Colby Kirkland – So Jeffrey, how has your recovery been?

Jeffrey Ingram – It has gone really well. As the doctor mentioned, psychotherapy seems to have worked wonders for me and has taught me how to deal with stress more constructively. And thankfully I have no need for medication. C- Now Dr. going back to you for a second. Some people have claimed that ethically, psychotherapy is is wrong. What would you say to those who share this view point?

Dr. Sturzendorf - Well first I would ask them to remember that, similar to other medical professionals, those who practice psychotherapy are bound by doctor-patient confidentiality, which protects the rights of the patient. Also I would point out that nothing is released with out the patients consent.

Colby Kirkland - Very interesting Doctor. Thank you for shedding light on these strange mental illnesses. Join us next Wednesday on Crazy Psychology when we invite Dr. Shawn Spencer for a discussion of Anxiety disorders. Until next time, this Colby Kirkland wishing you a CRAAAAZY week!