The Jerusalem Syndrome is a psychological disorder of an extremely religious character, in which the person, when arriving in Jerusalem, begins to present / display obsessive ideas related to the religion, being able to even believe that it is the reincarnation of some important religious figure.
This syndrome will be triggered when the person arrives in Jerusalem or even be the reason for the trip. The Jerusalem syndrome may manifest in person from any religion with or without previous psychological problems and the symptoms usually disappear one week after the person leaves Jerusalem.
The Jerusalem Syndrome can be differentiated from the Paris Syndrome, for example, because of its extremely religious profile and the fact that it can happen in any person, not only with Japanese, which is the most frequent occurrence in the Paris Syndrome. Learn more about Paris Syndrome.
Main symptoms
The symptoms of Jerusalem syndrome are progressive and, depending on the stage the person is in, the syndrome may be 'reversible'. These are signs and symptoms of Jerusalem Syndrome:
- Anxiety, nervousness and restlessness;
- Willingness to separate from the group or family to travel alone through Jerusalem;
- Need to always be clean and pure;
- Use of long clothing that reaches to the ankles, usually made with hotel sheets;
- Urgency in shouting psalms or Bible verses;
- Need to perform procession to holy places in Jerusalem;
- Prophesying sermons in public places.
In addition, one can believe that it is the reincarnation of some important religious figure. It is important that the signs and symptoms of Jerusalem Syndrome be identified quickly so that treatment can be done.
How is the treatment done?
The symptoms of Jerusalem Syndrome usually disappear after 1 week after the person leaves Jerusalem. However, people who have had this syndrome report that it was an experience of disorientation and remember all the details, being recommended a follow-up of a psychologist so that one can understand what led to the syndrome and thus prevent it from happening again.
During a visit to Jerusalem, if you experience any of the symptoms, it is important that the people around you do not call attention to the problem and refer you to a therapy center so that tranquilizers can be used if necessary, and so that the person leaves the city.
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