ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Autoscopy

Autoscopy is when a person sees a double image of themselves, like a mirror image, but they are not looking in a mirror. It's like seeing yourself from the outside, as if you were standing in front of yourself. Imagine standing in front of a mirror, but instead of seeing your reflection, you see another version of yourself standing in front of you.

People can experience autoscopy in different ways, and it can be scary or confusing. Some people describe feeling like their body is separating into two parts, or feeling like they are outside of their body, watching themselves from a distance. Imagine feeling like you're floating outside of your own body, watching yourself move and speak as if you were a puppet.

Autoscopy can happen for different reasons, such as certain medical conditions, stress, or even drug use. It's not always a bad thing, but it can be distressing for some people. If you ever experience autoscopy, it's important to talk to a doctor or mental health professional who can help you understand why it's happening and how to manage any symptoms.
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