Who is at greatest risk of developing dissociative amnesia?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

A person who has experienced sexual or physical abuse in childhood is at high risk of developing dissociative disorders. Commonly occurring in the teen and young adult years, dissociative amnesia becomes the coping mechanism to deal with the trauma. Sometimes those who have experienced war, invasive medical treatments, or natural disasters may experience dissociative disorders as well.

Continue Learning about Amnesia

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Dissociative amnesia is a disorder that occurs when a person who has suffered a trauma, usually in c...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Amnesia is not a common condition. Amnesia most often results from damage to the brain in the areas ...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Most forms of amnesia, especially those that fade quickly, will not seriously harm the body. Wernick...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Because those with dissociative amnesia are suffering from trauma, they are at increased risk for co...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Amnesia

Amnesia refers to partial, but serious, loss of memory. For example, someone can't remember their mom's maiden name or what happened last Christmas, but may recall the joke their little brother told them a few seconds ago. Unlike in the movies, real-life amnesia generally doesn't mean you lose your sense of identity. In fact, amnesiacs know who they are, but may have trouble learning new facts and forming new memories. Amnesia is believed to be caused by damage to areas of the brain where memories are processed and stored. Transient global amnesia is a short-term loss of memory. Amnesic syndrome is long-term memory loss and can be permanent. While there's no specific treatment, techniques for enhancing memory and psychological support can help amnesiacs and their families cope.

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