Amnesia or Dissociative Identity Disorder? Memory Loss

Q: Amnesia or Dissociative Identity Disorder? Memory Loss

Hello： You mentioned that you are experiencing some issues with your memory, but since the details of your condition are not very complete, I cannot make a definitive conclusion. <br>Additionally, discussing personal medical details online is generally not advisable. <br>Furtherm

Is this amnesia or dissociative identity disorder?

One day I woke up in bed and found multiple tear streaks on my face.
I had no recollection of how they got there, but I decided to forget about it and went to wash my face to prepare for work.
When I arrived at the office, my supervisor told me that I had been sending harassing text messages to someone.
I was taken aback and couldn't remember what he was talking about.
He said he had evidence to show me.
I looked at the content, but I couldn't understand what it meant; it felt like I was just looking at someone else's messages.
I had brain surgery over a year ago, and I have no idea what happened.
When my colleagues spoke to me, I could only smile because I didn't understand what they were saying...

3F2, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/09

Dr. Xiao Minghong reply Psychiatry

Hello: You mentioned that you are experiencing some issues with your memory, but since the details of your condition are not very complete, I cannot make a definitive conclusion.
Additionally, discussing personal medical details online is generally not advisable.
Furthermore, the tear stains on your face seem to indicate the pain you are feeling inside.
I recommend that you visit a psychiatric outpatient clinic for further examination and evaluation to fully understand the extent of your suffering and to receive the most comprehensive help.
Wishing you all the best.
Sincerely, Dr.
Hsiao Ming-Hung.

Reply Date: 2015/07/09

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing significant memory loss and confusion, which can be distressing and concerning. Based on your description, it is essential to differentiate between various types of memory loss, particularly amnesia and dissociative disorders, as well as to consider the potential impact of your previous brain surgery.

Amnesia typically refers to a loss of memory that can be caused by various factors, including trauma, psychological stress, or neurological conditions. There are different types of amnesia, such as retrograde amnesia (loss of memories prior to a specific event) and anterograde amnesia (difficulty forming new memories after an event). Given that you mentioned a history of brain surgery, it is possible that your memory issues could be related to the surgical procedure or any subsequent complications.

On the other hand, Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder, involves a disconnection between thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory. It is often associated with severe trauma or stress and can lead to gaps in memory regarding personal information or events. However, DID is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states, which does not seem to be indicated in your case.

Your experience of waking up with tear stains and having no recollection of events, coupled with the inability to understand conversations at work, suggests that you may be dealing with a form of dissociative amnesia or a cognitive impairment related to your past surgery. The emotional distress you experienced, indicated by the tears, could also suggest an underlying psychological component that may need to be addressed.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist or psychiatrist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including neurological assessments and psychological evaluations, to determine the underlying cause of your memory loss. Imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, may also be necessary to assess any structural changes in the brain resulting from your previous surgery.

In the meantime, here are some steps you can take to help manage your situation:
1. Document Your Experiences: Keep a journal of your daily experiences, including any memory lapses or confusion. This can help you track patterns and provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

2. Limit Stress: High levels of stress can exacerbate memory issues. Engage in relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercise to help reduce anxiety.

3. Stay Organized: Use tools like calendars, reminders, and notes to help you keep track of important tasks and appointments. This can alleviate some of the pressure on your memory.

4. Seek Support: Talk to trusted friends or family members about your experiences. They can provide emotional support and help you navigate your daily challenges.

5. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Substance use can further impair cognitive function and memory. It's best to avoid these substances, especially if you're experiencing memory issues.

In conclusion, your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Memory loss can stem from various factors, and understanding the root cause is essential for effective management. Please prioritize seeking professional help to address your concerns and improve your quality of life.

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