Understanding Anosognosia
A Guide to Anosognosia
What is Anosognosia?
Defining Anosognosia
Anosognosia, also called lack of insight, is a neurological condition in which the individual is unaware of, and unable to accept their neurological deficit or psychiatric condition. It is associated with mental illness, dementia, and structural brain lesions, such as those seen in the right hemisphere of stroke patients. This is a highly prevalent condition.
Experts think that anosognosia results from damage to an area of the brain involved in self-reflection. This condition is the number one reason for non-adherence to treatment for people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Treatment of anosognosia is difficult and often necessitates unique, varied approaches. Patients often refuse all treatment, especially as it relates to mental illness, because they are genuinely puzzled as to why family and caregivers want them to take medication and participate in other treatments.