How Do People with Fugue Function?
People diagnosed with fugue unexpectedly travel or wander away from home, work, or familiar places. They may take on new identities, enter new occupations, or develop new interests and hobbies. The degree of fugue can vary from mild to severe and may last anywhere from several hours to years. One study suggests that about half of all fugues last less than 24 hours. People diagnosed with fugue are often able to perform complex activities and appear to be normal. People with fugue appear to be oriented and to have intact mental functions. However, when questioned, people with fugue are confused about their identity and their past. Some people experience fugue along with other psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia*, which makes the diagnosis of fugue more difficult.
