Dissociation is a mental process that involves disconnecting from one’s thoughts, feelings, body, memories, and/or sense of self. It can occur as a temporary or persistent state, depending on what an individual is trying to endure. This experience can range in severity, from just “checking out”, difficulty focusing (ADHD), to heavy drug / alcohol use.
Dissociation is the brain’s way of coping with distress or traumatic events/memories, helping to protect the psyche from being overwhelmed.
Dissociation can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, abuse, and other overwhelming situations where a person cannot deal with the reality in front of them. It can be triggered by feeling stuck in a difficult situation, especially those involving overwhelming stress. This feeling of being trapped can activate the “freeze response,” a defense mechanism where the body becomes immobilized, often linked to dissociation. In situations where individuals feel physically trapped or unable to move, the body may dissociate to protect itself from insurmountable distress.
Types of Dissociation:
- Depersonalization: Feeling detached from one’s own body/mind, as if observing oneself from the outside.
- Derealization: Feeling disconnected from the distressing environment, making it seem unreal or distorted.
- Amnesia: Loss of traumatic memories, usually related to abuse or stressful events.
- Identity Confusion: Feeling unsure about one’s identity or developing multiple identities.
- Emotional Numbing: Feeling emotionally numb or detached from most experiences.
Treatment for dissociation typically involves therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or trauma-focused therapy. These therapies can help individuals understand and cope with dissociative experiences, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and improve their overall mental health.
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