Sjálfsætisveiki

Sjálfsætisveiki is an Icelandic term that translates to self-consumption sickness or self-eating disease. It describes a state of extreme self-neglect and mental distress where an individual becomes so consumed by their internal suffering that they neglect their basic needs, including hygiene, nutrition, and social interaction. This condition is not a formally recognized medical diagnosis in standard psychiatric classifications but rather a descriptive term used to capture a severe manifestation of psychological distress.

Individuals experiencing sjálfsætisveiki may appear withdrawn, disheveled, and apathetic. They might lose interest in activities they once enjoyed and isolate themselves from others, reinforcing their internal state of suffering. The feeling of being trapped or consumed by one's own thoughts and emotions is central to this experience. It can be a symptom or consequence of various underlying mental health conditions such as severe depression, anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, or psychosis.

The term emphasizes the internal, self-perpetuating nature of the suffering, suggesting a cycle where the individual's internal state leads to actions or inactions that further exacerbate their distress. Treatment for individuals exhibiting symptoms associated with sjálfsætisveiki typically involves addressing the root psychological causes, which may include psychotherapy, medication, and support for basic needs. The focus is on breaking the cycle of self-neglect and re-establishing connection with oneself and the outside world.