[18F] Experiencing personality changes, blackouts, and memory loss

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female reports experiencing significant personality changes since age 16, describing feelings of having more than one personality and being highly overstimulated at times. These changes include sudden dislikes for food or clothing and are accompanied by episodes of dizziness, lightheadedness, and blackouts lasting 4 to 6 hours, occurring daily without specific triggers, though sometimes linked to past memories. The patient also describes a progressive memory loss starting from a young age, necessitating written notes for daily activities. Additionally, the patient has a history of ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, social anxiety, separation anxiety, severe anxiety, and severe depression, diagnosed at various stages of childhood. The patient mentions thoughts of self-harm but has not acted on them and is sensitive to a wide range of medications, currently not taking any. There is no recent head injury, trauma, or severe stress related to these symptoms.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, you may be experiencing:

  • Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID): This is a complex psychological condition that is likely caused by many factors, including severe trauma during early childhood. It is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct or split identities or personality states that continually have power over the person's behavior. The "blackouts" or gaps in memory you described could be episodes of dissociation.

    • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, with the aim of integrating the separate personality states into one primary identity.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This is a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. You mentioned that you have been diagnosed with PTSD, and it could be contributing to your symptoms.

    • Treatment involves psychotherapy and medication to manage symptoms.
  • Anxiety and Depression: These conditions often occur together, and you mentioned that you have been diagnosed with both. Symptoms can include persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, feelings of worry or fear, and difficulty concentrating or remembering things.

    • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

What you can do

  1. Seek professional help: It's important to consult with a mental health professional who can provide a formal assessment and guide you towards the most appropriate treatment.

  2. Self-care: Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, eat a balanced diet, and engage in regular physical activity. These can help manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

  3. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: These can help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improve your ability to cope with stress.

What you should look out for

  • If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it's important to seek help immediately. Reach out to a trusted person in your life and let them know what you're going through so they can provide support. If you're in the U.S., you can also contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or use the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

Remember, I'm an AI and while I strive to provide accurate information, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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People Also Ask


What is Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and how is it treated?

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is a complex psychological condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states. It often results from severe trauma during early childhood. Treatment typically involves psychotherapy aimed at integrating the separate identities into one primary identity.


How can PTSD contribute to symptoms like memory loss and personality changes?

PTSD can contribute to symptoms like memory loss and personality changes due to the intense stress and anxiety it causes. The brain may respond to trauma by dissociating or blocking out memories, which can lead to gaps in memory and changes in behavior. Treatment usually involves psychotherapy and medication to help manage these symptoms.


What are some effective self-care strategies for managing anxiety and depression?

Effective self-care strategies for managing anxiety and depression include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques. These can help improve overall well-being and reduce symptoms.


What should I do if I experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide?

If you experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it's crucial to seek help immediately. Reach out to a trusted person in your life for support and contact a mental health professional. In the U.S., you can also contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or use the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.


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