Mass Psychogenic Illness: A Psychological Epidemic
What is Mass Psychogenic Illness?
Mass psychogenic illness (MPI), also known as mass hysteria or conversion disorder, is a condition in which a group of people experience similar physical symptoms without an identifiable organic cause. These symptoms can range from rashes and dizziness to seizures and paralysis.
Types of Mass Psychogenic Illness
There are two main types of MPI:
- Anxiety hysteria is triggered by extreme anxiety in a close-knit group and causes symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and fainting.
- Motor hysteria disproportionately affects girls and women and results from long-term stress, causing symptoms such as twitching, shaking, and facial tics.
Causes of Mass Psychogenic Illness
MPI is caused by a psychological trigger, rather than a biological or environmental one. This trigger can be anything from a perceived threat to a traumatic event. In the case of the “Strawberries With Sugar” outbreak in Portugal, the trigger was a popular teen soap opera that featured a storyline about a life-threatening illness.
History of Mass Psychogenic Illness
MPI has been documented for centuries, dating back to the Middle Ages. In the 15th and 19th centuries, outbreaks of MPI were common in convents, where women were subjected to extreme stress and isolation. During the Industrial Revolution, outbreaks of MPI occurred in factories and boarding schools, where workers and students faced similar conditions.
In the 20th century, MPI outbreaks began to be triggered by concerns about environmental toxins and fear of mysterious odors. The 1995 sarin nerve gas attacks in Tokyo triggered a series of MPI episodes involving benign odors.
The Role of Social Media in Mass Psychogenic Illness
Social media can play a significant role in the spread of MPI. A trigger for MPI, such as a news article about an outbreak, can spread quickly and widely through social media, potentially leading to new outbreaks.
The Impact of Mass Psychogenic Illness
MPI can have a significant impact on individuals and society as a whole. Individuals who experience MPI symptoms may miss school or work, and may be stigmatized as having a “mental illness.” MPI outbreaks can also be costly to hospitals and the healthcare system, as doctors may repeatedly test for an organic cause that does not exist.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Mass Psychogenic Illness
Diagnosing MPI can be challenging, as there is no single test that can confirm the condition. Doctors typically rely on a combination of patient history, physical examination, and ruling out other potential causes.
There is no specific cure for MPI, but treatment typically involves psychotherapy to help patients understand and manage their symptoms. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to alleviate anxiety or other symptoms.
The Future of Mass Psychogenic Illness
As the world faces new challenges, such as terrorism and climate change, it is likely that MPI will continue to occur. It is important to be aware of the condition and to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing unexplained symptoms.
Overcoming the Stigma of Mass Psychogenic Illness
There is a stigma surrounding MPI, as it is often seen as a “mental illness.” This stigma can prevent people from seeking help and can make it difficult for researchers to study the condition. It is important to remember that MPI is a real condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their mental health.
Conclusion
Mass psychogenic illness is a complex and fascinating condition that can have a significant impact on individuals and society. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment of MPI, we can help to reduce the stigma surrounding the condition and ensure that people who are affected get the help they need.