Yes, it is possible for an actor to become so immersed in a role that they experience a psychological phenomenon called "character immersion" or "identity assumption." When actors become deeply engrossed in their characters, they may temporarily lose a sense of their true identity and start to identify more with the fictional persona they are portraying.
This psychological phenomenon is not considered a mental disorder in itself but rather a natural consequence of the actor's dedication to their craft and the process of method acting. Method acting is an approach in which actors strive to deeply connect with the emotions and experiences of their characters, often drawing from personal memories and emotions to make their performance more authentic and convincing.
During this process, some actors may experience a blurred line between their own identity and that of the character, leading to a temporary shift in their perception of self. However, this immersion is typically a temporary state, and once the acting role is over, the actor can return to their own identity without any lasting negative consequences.
It's worth noting that while character immersion is a normal aspect of the acting process for some individuals, actors need to maintain a strong sense of self-awareness and emotional stability to prevent any potential negative effects on their mental well-being. Professional actors often receive training and guidance to navigate the emotional challenges associated with method acting and character immersion effectively.
If an actor experiences significant difficulty in disengaging from their character or has ongoing psychological distress as a result of their acting experiences, it may be indicative of deeper emotional issues that should be addressed with the support of mental health professionals. But, character immersion itself is not considered a mental disorder.