Self-induced depersonalization syndrome.
The American journal of psychiatry November 1976 DOI: 10.1176/ajp.133.11.1326 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 2 |
| Population | Individuals who had engaged in meditative techniques designed to alter consciousness |
| Topics | Ego dissolution |
| Key findings | Depersonalization occurred during waking consciousness in two individuals who practiced consciousness-altering meditation. The author argues that psychiatrists should ask depersonalization patients about involvement in activities leading to altered states of consciousness, may in some cases appropriately refer them to responsible meditation groups, and cautions against phenothiazines when depersonalization is prominent. |
Abstract
The author reports two cases in which depersonalization occurred during the waking consciousness of individuals who had engaged in meditative techniques designed to alter consciousness. Psychiatrists should be aware of this phenomenon, as the number organizations in the "consciousness movement" is increasing, and should ask people manifesting depersonalization about any involvement in activities leading to altered states of consciousness. In some cases it might be appropriate to refer such patients to responsible groups that teach altered consciousness by meditation as an egosyntonic desirable state. The author cautions against the use of phenothiazines in cases where depersonalization is a prominent feature.