Am J Psychiatry 1976; 133:1326-1328
Copyright © 1976 by American Psychiatric Association
Self-induced depersonalization syndrome
RB Kennedy Jr
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.
