Trance Disorder (ICD-11: 6B62): Complete Coding and Diagnostic Guide

1. Introduction

Trance Disorder represents a complex dissociative condition characterized by involuntary and recurrent alterations in the state of consciousness, which cause significant distress and functional impairment to the individual. Unlike culturally accepted trance experiences integrated into religious or spiritual practices, this disorder manifests in a pathological, unwanted, and uncontrolled manner, substantially interfering with the patient's daily life.

The clinical importance of this diagnosis lies in the need to differentiate pathological trance states from normal cultural phenomena, a fundamental distinction to avoid both the pathologization of legitimate cultural practices and the neglect of conditions requiring medical intervention. The disorder is frequently associated with psychological trauma, severe stress, or other precipitating factors that trigger dissociative mechanisms as a form of psychological defense.

In contemporary clinical practice, appropriate recognition of Trance Disorder allows for the proper direction of therapeutic resources, including specialized psychotherapy and, when necessary, complementary pharmacological interventions. Correct coding is critical to ensure access to appropriate treatments, facilitate epidemiological research, allow international comparisons of clinical data, and ensure accurate documentation for public health planning purposes. Furthermore, appropriate classification aids in communication among mental health professionals, neurologists, and other specialists involved in the comprehensive care of these patients.

2. Correct ICD-11 Code

Code: 6B62

Description: Trance disorder

Parent category: Dissociative disorders

Complete official definition: Trance disorder is characterized by trance states in which there is a marked alteration in the individual's state of consciousness or a loss of the customary sense of personal identity, in which the individual experiences a narrowing of awareness of the immediate environment or an extraordinarily narrow and selective focus on environmental stimuli, and movements, postures and speech that are repetitive and restricted to a small repertoire, which is experienced as being outside the individual's control.

Fundamental distinctive element: the trance state is not characterized by the experience of being replaced by an alternative identity, which clearly differentiates it from possession disorder. Episodes must be recurrent or, if based on a single episode, it must last for at least several days. The involuntary and unwanted character is essential for diagnosis, as is the absence of acceptance as part of a collective cultural or religious practice.

The definition establishes rigorous exclusion criteria: symptoms cannot occur exclusively during another dissociative disorder, should not be attributable to substances, medications, withdrawal, exhaustion, hypnagogic or hypnopompic states, neurological diseases, head trauma, or sleep-wake disorders. Functional impact is a mandatory criterion: symptoms must result in significant distress or impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

3. When to Use This Code

Scenario 1: Recurrent Post-Traumatic Episodes

Patient who, following a significant traumatic experience, presents with recurrent episodes of altered consciousness lasting several hours, during which the patient remains immobile with a fixed gaze, performing repetitive hand movements, without adequately responding to the environment. The patient reports that these episodes occur involuntarily, cause significant distress, and interfere with professional activities. There is no experience of alternate identity or sensation of possession. Neurological evaluation rules out organic causes.

Scenario 2: Single Prolonged Trance State

Individual who developed a continuous trance state lasting two weeks, characterized by marked narrowing of consciousness, exclusive focus on specific visual stimuli, stereotyped body movements, and speech limited to repetitive phrases. The patient describes the experience as completely involuntary and distressing. There is no history of substance use, identifiable medical conditions, or participation in cultural rituals. The condition resulted in hospitalization due to inability to perform self-care.

Scenario 3: Trance Disorder with Identifiable Triggers

Patient presents with trance episodes triggered by interpersonal stress situations, during which the patient exhibits marked alteration of consciousness, partial loss of sense of personal identity, remains seated in a rigid position, swaying the trunk repetitively, with severely limited verbal response capacity. Episodes last between two to six hours, occur weekly, and cause significant impairment in family relationships and work performance. The patient expresses a desire to control these states but feels helpless.

Scenario 4: Trance with Complex Stereotyped Movements

Individual who experiences trance states characterized by complex sequences of repetitive hand and arm movements, accompanied by profound alteration of consciousness and extreme narrowing of attentional focus. During episodes, which last several hours and occur multiple times per month, the patient does not recognize familiar people and does not respond to verbal commands. After episodes, there is partial recall and feelings of exhaustion. There are no elements of possession or alternate identities.

Scenario 5: Trance Disorder in the Context of Chronic Stress

Patient under prolonged occupational stress develops recurrent trance episodes in which the patient remains with a fixed gaze, performs body swaying movements, murmurs repetitive unintelligible phrases, and demonstrates drastically reduced awareness of the environment. The episodes are involuntary, cause intense suffering to the patient and concern to family members, occur without relation to cultural or religious practices, and result in withdrawal from work activities. Comprehensive medical investigation does not identify organic causes.

Scenario 6: Refractory Dissociative Trance

Individual with a history of complex childhood trauma presents with frequent trance episodes characterized by marked disconnection from the environment, fixed body postures maintained for prolonged periods, verbalization limited to isolated repeated words, and inability to respond to usual external stimuli. The episodes severely interfere with social and occupational functioning, do not include experiences of possession or alternate identities, and do not respond to initial interventions, requiring specialized therapeutic approach for dissociative disorders.

4. When NOT to Use This Code

Normative cultural and religious practices: Do not use code 6B62 for trance states that occur as an accepted and integrated part of collective cultural, religious, or spiritual practices, even if they involve alterations of consciousness, repetitive movements, or stereotyped speech. In these contexts, the trance is voluntary, culturally valued, and does not cause distress or functional impairment.

Possession disorder: When the patient reports experiencing being replaced by an alternative identity, spirit, entity, or external force that assumes control of the body and behavior, the appropriate code is 6B63 (Trance and possession disorder), not 6B62. The presence of alternative identity is the critical differentiator.

General medical conditions: Altered states of consciousness secondary to epilepsy, brain tumors, central nervous system infections, traumatic brain injury, metabolic or endocrine disorders should be coded according to the underlying medical condition. Complete neurological and clinical investigation is mandatory before establishing the diagnosis of Trance Disorder.

Substance intoxication or withdrawal: Alterations of consciousness, repetitive movements, and stereotyped behaviors caused by psychoactive substance use, medications affecting the central nervous system, or withdrawal syndromes should not be coded as 6B62. The temporal relationship with substance use and resolution after substance elimination indicate an alternative diagnosis.

Sleep-wake disorders: Hypnagogic states (wakefulness-sleep transition) or hypnopompic states (sleep-wakefulness transition), sleepwalking, night terrors, or other sleep-related phenomena should not be confused with Trance Disorder. The clear relationship with sleep periods differentiates these conditions.

Other dissociative disorders: If trance symptoms occur exclusively in the context of dissociative amnesia (6B61), dissociative identity disorder, or other specified dissociative disorder, the primary diagnosis should reflect that condition, not 6B62 alone.

5. Step-by-Step Coding Process

Step 1: Assess Diagnostic Criteria

Begin with a detailed clinical interview exploring the specific characteristics of trance episodes: frequency, duration, context of occurrence, symptoms during episodes, and functional impact. Question about alterations in consciousness, perception of the environment, voluntary control, presence of repetitive movements or speech, and identity experiences.

Utilize validated dissociative assessment instruments, such as the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) for initial screening and the Structured Clinical Interview for Dissociative Disorders (SCID-D) for in-depth diagnostic evaluation. These instruments assist in identifying dissociative symptoms and in differentiating between subtypes of dissociative disorders.

Perform a complete neurological evaluation including neurological physical examination, electroencephalogram to exclude epileptiform activity, and when indicated, neuroimaging to rule out structural lesions. Request basic laboratory tests to exclude metabolic, endocrine, or toxic causes.

Obtain a detailed trauma history, including adverse childhood events, complex traumas, experiences of neglect or abuse. Investigate current stressors, available social support, and coping strategies utilized by the patient.

Step 2: Verify Specifiers

Assess the severity of the disorder considering episode frequency, average duration, intensity of consciousness alterations, and degree of functional impairment. Classify as mild when episodes are occasional and cause minimal interference, moderate when there is regular frequency with significant functional impact, or severe when episodes are frequent or prolonged with substantial incapacity.

Document the typical duration of episodes: whether they last minutes, hours, or days. For diagnosis based on a single episode, confirm that the duration was at least several days. Record whether there is an identifiable temporal pattern or specific triggers.

Characterize the repertoire of movements, postures, and verbalizations during episodes. Document whether there are consistent stereotyped patterns or variability between episodes. Assess the degree of responsiveness to external stimuli during trance states.

Identify specific areas of impaired functioning: personal, family, social, educational, occupational. Quantify the impact through patient reports, observations from family members, and when available, records of absenteeism or reduced performance.

Step 3: Differentiate from Other Codes

6B60 (Dissociative neurological symptom disorder): The fundamental difference lies in the nature of symptoms. In 6B60, specific neurological symptoms predominate such as paralysis, involuntary abnormal movements, sensory alterations, or non-epileptic seizures, without necessarily having a trance state with marked alteration of consciousness. In 6B62, the central element is the trance state itself, with alteration of consciousness as the defining characteristic.

6B61 (Dissociative amnesia): In 6B61, the primary symptom is the inability to recall important personal information, typically of a traumatic or stressful nature, which cannot be explained by ordinary forgetting. Although there may be altered states during the amnestic period, the diagnostic focus is on memory loss. In 6B62, the alteration of consciousness and repetitive behaviors during the trance are central, even though there may be some difficulty recalling the episodes afterward.

6B63 (Trance and possession disorder): This is the most critical differentiation. Code 6B63 is used when there is an experience of possession, that is, the individual feels that their identity has been replaced by an alternative identity, spirit, entity, or external force. In 6B62, there is no such experience of identity replacement; the patient maintains the sense that it is themselves, although with altered consciousness and reduced control over behaviors.

Step 4: Required Documentation

Checklist of mandatory information:

Detailed description of trance episodes (frequency, duration, characteristics)
Confirmation of marked alteration of consciousness or loss of customary sense of personal identity
Documentation of repetitive and restricted movements, postures, or speech
Record that episodes are experienced as outside voluntary control
Confirmation of absence of experience of replacement by alternative identity
Evidence of recurrence or, if single episode, duration of at least several days
Documentation of involuntary and unwanted character
Confirmation that it is not part of accepted collective cultural or religious practice
Exclusion of other dissociative disorders as primary explanation
Exclusion of alternative mental, behavioral, or neurodevelopmental disorders
Exclusion of effects of substances, medications, or withdrawal
Exclusion of exhaustion, hypnagogic or hypnopompic states
Exclusion of nervous system disease, head trauma, or sleep-wake disorder
Documentation of significant distress or functional impairment in important life areas
Results of neurological and laboratory evaluations performed
History of trauma or precipitating factors, when identifiable
Specific impact on personal, family, social, educational, and occupational areas

6. Complete Practical Example

Clinical Case

A 32-year-old patient, an administrative professional, is referred for psychiatric evaluation following multiple episodes of behavioral changes in the workplace. Approximately eight months ago, he began experiencing episodes in which he "disconnects from the world around him," in his own words.

Initial presentation: During the episodes, which occur two to three times per week, the patient remains seated at his workstation with a fixed gaze directed at the computer monitor, but without performing any productive activity. Colleagues report that he performs repetitive flexion and extension movements of his fingers, mumbles short incomprehensible phrases, and does not respond when called by name. The episodes last between one and three hours. After the episodes end, the patient gradually "returns" and demonstrates confusion about the elapsed time, remembering only partially what occurred.

History and context: The patient reports that the episodes began after a structural reorganization at his company, which resulted in a significant increase in demands and pressure for results. He denies use of illicit substances, consumes alcohol only socially, and does not use medications regularly. He denies a history of epilepsy or other neurological conditions. He reports a history of emotional trauma in adolescence (severe school bullying), but had never previously presented with dissociative symptoms.

Evaluation performed: General physical and neurological examination without abnormalities. Laboratory tests (complete blood count, thyroid function, blood glucose, electrolytes) within normal limits. Electroencephalogram during wakefulness and sleep showed no epileptiform activity. Brain magnetic resonance imaging without structural abnormalities. Application of the Dissociative Experiences Scale revealed an elevated score (38 points), suggesting clinically significant dissociative symptomatology. Structured clinical interview confirmed the presence of trance episodes without characteristics of possession or alternate identities.

Characteristics of the episodes: The patient describes feeling the episodes approaching through a sensation of "increasing disconnection," but is unable to prevent them. During trance states, he reports drastically reduced awareness of the environment, inability to respond voluntarily to external stimuli, and a sensation that his movements occur automatically. There is no experience of another entity or identity taking control; he maintains the sense that it is himself, although unable to fully control his behavior. The episodes are a source of significant distress and professional embarrassment.

Diagnostic reasoning: The episodes are characterized by marked alteration of consciousness, extreme narrowing of attentional focus, repetitive and restricted movements and verbalizations, experienced as beyond voluntary control. The absence of experience of substitution by an alternate identity excludes possession disorder. The recurrence of episodes (two to three times weekly for eight months) satisfies the temporal criterion. The episodes are clearly involuntary, unwanted, and unrelated to cultural or religious practices. Organic causes were adequately excluded through comprehensive medical evaluation. Functional impairment is evident: decline in professional performance, risk of job loss, increasing social isolation, and significant psychological distress.

Coding Step by Step

Criteria analysis:

Marked alteration of consciousness: PRESENT (drastically reduced awareness of the environment)
Loss of customary sense of personal identity: PARTIALLY PRESENT (disconnection, but maintains sense of being himself)
Narrowing of awareness of the environment or narrow focus on stimuli: PRESENT (fixed gaze on monitor, does not respond to calls)
Repeated and restricted movements, postures, and speech: PRESENT (repetitive finger flexion-extension, mumbling)
Experienced as beyond control: PRESENT (inability to prevent or interrupt episodes)
Absence of experience of substitution by alternate identity: CONFIRMED
Recurrent episodes: PRESENT (2-3 times per week for 8 months)
Involuntary and unwanted: PRESENT (significant distress and embarrassment)
Not part of collective cultural/religious practice: CONFIRMED
Does not occur exclusively during another dissociative disorder: CONFIRMED
Exclusion of organic causes: PERFORMED (complete negative neurological evaluation)
Exclusion of substances/medications: CONFIRMED
Significant distress or functional impairment: PRESENT (professional, social, psychological)

Code selected: 6B62 - Trance disorder

Complete justification: The patient presents all essential criteria for the diagnosis of Trance Disorder as defined by ICD-11. The episodes are characterized primarily by trance states with marked alteration of consciousness, not by specific neurological dissociative symptoms (excluding 6B60) nor by memory loss as the primary symptom (excluding 6B61). The absence of experience of possession or alternate identity is the critical differentiator in relation to code 6B63. Rigorous medical investigation excluded organic causes, and the context of significant psychosocial stress with a history of prior trauma is consistent with dissociative etiology. The substantial functional impact and psychological distress meet the criterion of clinical significance.

Applicable complementary codes:

QE84 (Factors related to work) - to document the occupational context of stress
Additional codes for comorbid conditions, if present (for example, anxiety or depressive disorders frequently coexist)

7. Related Codes and Differentiation

Within the Same Category

6B60: Dissociative neurological symptom disorder

When to use 6B60: Use this code when the patient presents with symptoms that mimic neurological conditions (weakness or paralysis of limbs, involuntary abnormal movements, sensory alterations such as anesthesia or paresthesias, non-epileptic seizures, visual or auditory alterations) without identifiable neurological basis and with evidence of relevant psychological factors.

When to use 6B62: Use this code when the central presentation is the trance state itself, characterized by marked alteration of consciousness, narrowing of attentional focus and repetitive behaviors, even though some neurological symptoms may occur during episodes.

Main difference: In 6B60, specific neurological symptoms are the defining feature, whereas in 6B62, the altered state of consciousness and trance are central. A patient with dissociative paralysis without alteration of consciousness receives 6B60; a patient in a trance state with altered consciousness and stereotyped behaviors receives 6B62.

6B61: Dissociative amnesia

When to use 6B61: Use this code when the predominant symptom is the inability to recall important personal information, usually related to traumatic or stressful events, which goes beyond common forgetfulness and cannot be explained by medical conditions or substance use.

When to use 6B62: Use this code when there are recurrent episodes of trance with altered consciousness and repetitive behaviors, even though there may be some difficulty recalling events that occurred during the trance afterward.

Main difference: The diagnostic focus in 6B61 is on loss of autobiographical memory, whereas in 6B62 it is on the trance state with altered consciousness. If both are present in a significant and independent manner, both codes may be applied, but if amnesia occurs only for periods of trance, 6B62 is sufficient.

6B63: Trance and possession disorder

When to use 6B63: Use this code when the patient experiences a trance state OR possession. In possession, there is the experience that the habitual identity has been replaced by an alternative identity (spirit, entity, external force, another person), which assumes control of behavior, frequently with subsequent amnesia.

When to use 6B62: Use this code exclusively when there is a trance state WITHOUT the experience of possession or identity replacement. The patient maintains the sense of being themselves, albeit with reduced control.

Main difference: This is the most critical distinction. The presence or absence of experience of possession/identity replacement is the absolute differentiator. Ask explicitly: "During these episodes, do you feel that another person, spirit, or force takes control of you?" If yes, consider 6B63; if no, and the other criteria are present, use 6B62.

Differential Diagnoses

Epilepsy (especially focal seizures with altered consciousness): Epileptic states may present with altered consciousness, stereotyped movements (automatisms) and repetitive behaviors. Differentiation requires electroencephalography, preferably with recording during the episode. Epilepsy typically presents with characteristic electroencephalographic patterns, shorter duration of episodes (usually seconds to a few minutes) and may have specific triggering factors such as sleep deprivation or flashing lights.

Psychotic disorders: Catatonic states or psychotic episodes may include alterations of consciousness, abnormal postures and repetitive behaviors. The presence of delusions, structured auditory or visual hallucinations, disorganization of thought and absence of relationship with dissociative or traumatic factors suggests primary psychotic disorder.

Anxiety disorders (especially panic disorder): Panic attacks may include sensation of unreality or depersonalization, but typically have much shorter duration (minutes), are accompanied by prominent autonomic symptoms (palpitations, sweating, tremors) and do not involve the characteristic stereotyped repetitive behaviors of trance.

Autism spectrum disorder: Repetitive and stereotyped behaviors, intense and restricted focus on specific stimuli occur in autism, but are continuous traits of the individual's functioning, not distinct episodes of trance. Early developmental onset and persistent pattern differentiate it from Trance Disorder.

8. Differences with ICD-10

Equivalent ICD-10 code: F44.3 - Trance and possession states

Main changes in ICD-11:

ICD-11 introduces clearer and more specific differentiation by separating Trance Disorder (6B62) from Trance and possession disorder (6B63), whereas ICD-10 grouped both conditions under a single code (F44.3). This separation better reflects the phenomenological distinction between trance states without experience of alternative identity and possession states where there is experience of identity replacement.

ICD-11 provides more detailed and operationalized diagnostic criteria, specifying with greater precision the characteristics of trance (marked alteration of consciousness, narrowing of attentional focus, repetitive and restricted movements and speech), the involuntary and unwanted nature, and the need for differentiation from normative cultural practices.

The exclusion criteria in ICD-11 are more explicit and comprehensive, specifically listing conditions that must be ruled out: other dissociative disorders, alternative mental disorders, substance effects, sleep-related states, neurological conditions, and head trauma. This specificity facilitates differential diagnosis and reduces ambiguity.

ICD-11 more clearly emphasizes the distinction between pathological dissociative phenomena and normative cultural or religious practices, recognizing that trance states may be completely normal and functional in specific cultural contexts. Diagnosis requires that the trance be involuntary, unwanted, and not accepted as part of collective practice.

Practical impact of these changes:

The separation of codes allows more precise and specific documentation, facilitating epidemiological research on distinct subtypes of dissociative disorders. Clinicians can now clearly differentiate patients with trance without possession from those with possession experiences, potentially informing more targeted therapeutic approaches.

The greater specificity of criteria reduces diagnostic variability among different raters and cultures, promoting greater international diagnostic reliability. The detailed exclusion criteria guide more systematic clinical investigation, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis of organic conditions as dissociative disorders.

The emphasis on cultural differentiation promotes cultural competence among mental health professionals, reducing the risk of inappropriate pathologization of legitimate cultural practices and respecting the diversity of cultural expressions of psychological distress.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

How is Trance Disorder diagnosed?

The diagnosis is essentially clinical, based on detailed interview with the patient and, when possible, with observers of the episodes. The professional should thoroughly characterize the episodes: how they begin, how long they last, what happens during (alterations of consciousness, movements, speech), how they end, and what the patient recalls afterward. Standardized instruments such as the Dissociative Experiences Scale and the Structured Clinical Interview for Dissociative Disorders assist in systematic evaluation. Crucially, the diagnosis requires exclusion of organic causes through neurological evaluation, electroencephalogram, and, when indicated, neuroimaging. Investigation of trauma history, current stressors, and cultural context is fundamental for etiological understanding and therapeutic planning.

Is treatment available in public health systems?

The availability of specialized treatment for dissociative disorders varies considerably among different health systems and regions. In many contexts, public mental health services offer psychotherapy that can be adapted for treatment of dissociative symptoms, although not always with professionals specifically trained in dissociative disorders. Trauma-focused psychotherapy, particularly approaches such as trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and stabilization-oriented therapies, represents first-line treatment. Some systems offer these modalities at the outpatient level, while more severe cases may require specialized programs or hospitalization. Advocacy for adequate services and training of professionals in recognition and treatment of dissociative disorders are ongoing needs in many contexts.

How long does treatment last?

The duration of treatment varies substantially depending on symptom severity, presence of underlying complex trauma, psychiatric comorbidities, patient's personal resources, and response to intervention. Less complex cases may respond to brief interventions of a few months, while patients with complex trauma, multiple comorbidities, or severe dissociative disorders frequently require prolonged treatment lasting several years. Treatment typically progresses in phases: initially focusing on stabilization, development of emotional regulation skills, and reduction of acute symptoms; subsequently, when appropriate and if the patient is stable, processing of traumatic memories; and finally, consolidation of gains and integration. The approach should be individualized, respecting the patient's pace and prioritizing safety and stabilization before more intensive work with traumatic material.

Can this code be used in medical certificates?

Yes, code 6B62 can be used in official medical documentation, including certificates, when appropriate and necessary to justify absence from work or educational activities. However, ethical and practical considerations are important. The professional should assess whether specification of the complete diagnosis is necessary or whether a more general description (such as "mental health disorder" or "medical condition") would be sufficient and less potentially stigmatizing. The decision should be made in consultation with the patient, respecting their autonomy and considering possible implications of diagnostic disclosure. In some situations, particularly when there is a need to justify prolonged absence or specific accommodations, the precise diagnosis may be necessary. Documentation should always prioritize confidentiality and the patient's best interests.

Is Trance Disorder curable?

The concept of "cure" in dissociative disorders is complex. Many patients experience significant or complete remission of symptoms with appropriate treatment, particularly when precipitating factors are identified and addressed, and when psychotherapeutic interventions focused on trauma are implemented. Recovery frequently involves not only reduction or elimination of trance episodes, but also development of improved emotional regulation capacities, processing of traumatic experiences, and strengthening of overall functioning. Some patients may experience residual symptoms or vulnerability to recurrence during periods of high stress, requiring long-term maintenance strategies. The prognosis is generally more favorable when treatment is initiated early, when there is good therapeutic alliance, when the patient has adequate social support, and when there is no severe complex trauma or multiple serious comorbidities.

Can children have Trance Disorder?

Although dissociative disorders can occur in children and adolescents, the diagnosis of Trance Disorder in this population requires special care. Children may present dissociative states in response to trauma, abuse, or neglect, but the presentation may differ from adults. Repetitive behaviors, states of "disconnection," and alterations of consciousness should be carefully differentiated from developmentally appropriate behaviors, neurodevelopmental disorders (such as autism), epilepsy, and other childhood mental disorders. Evaluation should include direct observation, reports from multiple informants (parents, teachers), consideration of developmental context, and careful investigation of possible exposure to trauma. Treatment in children frequently involves not only individual therapy, but also family and environmental interventions to ensure safety and promote healthy development.

Is there specific medication for Trance Disorder?

There is no specific medication approved for treatment of Trance Disorder. Psychotherapy, particularly approaches focused on trauma and dissociation, represents the first-line and most effective treatment. However, medications may play a complementary role in treating comorbid conditions frequently present, such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, may help with depressive and anxious symptoms. In cases with severe anxiety, anxiolytics may be considered, although with caution due to the potential for dependence. Mood-stabilizing medications or antipsychotics in low doses are occasionally used in complex cases with severe emotional dysregulation or comorbid psychotic symptoms. Any use of medication should be carefully considered, monitored, and integrated with psychotherapy as the central component of treatment.

Is Trance Disorder different from meditation or hypnosis?

Yes, there are fundamental differences. Meditation and hypnosis are intentionally induced, voluntary altered states of consciousness, generally pleasant or neutral, and under the individual's control (who can initiate and terminate the state at will). These states are frequently used therapeutically or for personal development and do not cause suffering or functional impairment. In contrast, Trance Disorder is characterized by involuntary, unwanted episodes that occur without the individual's control, cause significant suffering, and interfere with daily functioning. While meditation and hypnosis are practices that a person chooses to engage in, Trance Disorder happens to the individual against their will. Interestingly, therapeutic hypnosis techniques and mindfulness may, in some cases, be used as tools in the treatment of dissociative disorders, helping patients develop greater control over dissociative states.

Keywords: Trance disorder, ICD-11 6B62, dissociative disorders, alteration of consciousness, differential diagnosis, involuntary trance, dissociative symptoms, ICD-11 coding, pathological trance, dissociative assessment.

External References

This article was prepared based on reliable scientific sources:

References verified on 2026-02-03

Trance Disorder

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