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Causes - Munchausen's syndrome

Munchausen syndrome may be caused by mental health difficulties and stressful life experiences.

Many people refuse psychological assessment and treatment. This means it can be unclear why people with the syndrome behave the way they do.

Risk factors

Several factors may increase the risk of developing Munchausen syndrome.

These include:

  • childhood trauma, such as emotional, physical or sexual abuse
  • medical history, such as a serious illness during childhood
  • loss of a loved one through death, illness or abandonment
  • a poor sense of identity or self-esteem
  • mental health difficulties, such as borderline personality disorder or depression
  • being cared for by doctors and medical staff makes them feel important

Content supplied by the NHS and adapted for Ireland by the HSE

Page last reviewed: 14 May 2025
Next review due: 14 May 2028