What is Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome?
Have you often found yourself in daydreams or feeling excessively slow and lethargic? Then surprisingly enough, this could be a symptom of the Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (CDS). A psychological term coined by psychologists in 1960s and 1970s, it represents continuous mental wanderings and focus troubles. However, why is it termed as syndrome but not just a funny trait any way?
The main difference lies in the severity on one’s life. In individuals with CDS, these actions interfere greatly with their daily routine activities, academic marks and social life. Everyone at times tends to go into day dreams, however people suffering from CDS have serious problems trying to focus their attention on something for long periods of time. This does not mean an individual might be said to be careless or lazy; rather it refers to an ongoing pattern which seriously impairs proper functioning in areas of one’s living.
How Does CDS Differ from ADHD?
In contrast with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) that presents itself through symptoms like over activity and impulsiveness, Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome represents what is known as “slow cognitive tempo”. The former name for the condition explicitly states its basic characteristics: frequent daydreaming, unclear thinking process, and low speed of information processing. Although people with ADHD can fluctuate between different subjects after certain moments, individuals having CDS are not capable of focusing at all.
Nevertheless, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), there is no officially recognized separate “attention disorder” called CD. Yet still extensive research allows evidencing that this entity deserves greater recognition apart from being included together with ADHD.
Identifying and Diagnosing CDS
It may be hard to diagnose CDS due to a lack of defined criteria. Symptoms are usually assessed by psychologists through questionnaires and observing behaviors. Parents and teachers may observe such behaviours in children who appear “absent” or take longer than usual to answer questions and finish tasks. This is because these individuals with CDS have slow processors which make it difficult for them to understand or respond to information quickly thus being thought of as dumb or lazy.
Treatment and Support
Support and treatment for CDS are still evolving. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help people adopt better coping strategies, improve their levels of attention etc. On the other hand, some researchers claim that stimulant medications which work against ADHD could be potentially useful in treating this disease. Apart from this, there are many ways of life changes such as maintaining a regular sleep pattern into your routine as well as bringing exercise on board; all these facilitate management of symptoms.
Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma
The main challenge faced in addressing CDS is lack of awareness among people. Even some health professionals might take it lightly by handling it like laziness or reluctance towards doing the right thing at the right time hence stigmatizing it further. Stigma associated with CDS can prevent patients from receiving needed assistance.
CDS has no official recognition but it is believed that its incidence is quite high among human beings. Some studies suggest that its prevalence may be similar to ADHD, which affects about 5 percent or 7 percent children. Consequently many individuals might be struggling with CDS without realizing they are bound by its chains.
Understanding CDS will help provide necessary support for those affected by this condition. By recognizing that behaviors associated with CDS are not just quirks but potential indicators of a broader issue, we can better support individuals in managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life.
