Overview

Dissociative amnesia is a psychological disorder characterized by an inability to recall important personal information, often related to traumatic or stressful events. In Korea, mental health services at institutions such as Seoul National University Hospital, Asan Medical Center, and Samsung Medical Center provide evaluation, therapy, and support for individuals experiencing dissociative amnesia.

What is Dissociative Amnesia?

Dissociative amnesia involves memory loss that cannot be explained by ordinary forgetfulness or medical conditions, often triggered by stress, trauma, or psychological conflict. Types include localized, selective, generalized, and systematized amnesia, affecting personal identity and life events.

Symptoms

• Sudden inability to recall personal information or life events
• Memory gaps surrounding traumatic or stressful experiences
• Confusion or disorientation
• Emotional distress related to memory loss
• Possible wandering or unexpected travel (dissociative fugue)
• Anxiety, depression, or irritability
• Social or occupational difficulties due to memory impairment

Causes

• Severe psychological trauma or stressful events
• Childhood abuse or neglect
• Emotional shock or extreme stress
• Coexisting psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, PTSD)
• Rarely, neurological or medical conditions must be ruled out

Risk Factors

• History of trauma or abuse
• High levels of acute or chronic stress
• Pre-existing mental health conditions
• Limited coping skills for emotional stress
• Family history of dissociative or psychiatric disorders

Complications

• Difficulty maintaining personal relationships
• Impaired occupational or social functioning
• Emotional distress and depression
• Vulnerability to additional mental health issues
• Risk of unsafe behaviors during fugue episodes

Prevention

• Early intervention for trauma or stress-related conditions
• Healthy coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety
• Supportive family and social environment
• Regular mental health check-ups for at-risk individuals
• Education on trauma and stress management

Treatment Options in Korea

Treatment aims to restore memory, improve coping skills, and manage associated symptoms.

• Diagnosis
  • Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
  • Detailed history of memory loss and triggering events
  • Psychological assessments and standardized questionnaires
  • Ruling out neurological and medical causes
• Medical and Psychological Treatments
  • Psychotherapy, particularly trauma-focused therapy
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for associated anxiety or depression
  • Hypnotherapy in select cases to aid memory recovery
  • Medications for coexisting psychiatric symptoms (antidepressants, anxiolytics)
  • Supportive therapy for family and caregivers
• Supportive Care
  • Structured daily routines to reduce confusion
  • Emotional support and counseling
  • Education about the disorder to improve understanding and compliance
  • Stress management and relaxation techniques
• Specialized Hospitals and Clinics in Korea
  • Seoul National University Hospital – Psychiatric evaluation and trauma-focused therapy
  • Asan Medical Center – Multidisciplinary mental health care
  • Samsung Medical Center – Comprehensive psychiatric and psychotherapy services
  • Local mental health clinics for ongoing therapy and support
• Long-Term Follow-Up
  • Continuous monitoring of memory recovery and mental health
  • Adjustment of therapy or medications as needed
  • Reinforcement of coping strategies for daily life
  • Support for reintegration into work, school, and social environments