Dissociation is a mental process that involves a disconnection or disruption of normal consciousness, memory, identity, emotions, or perception of the environment. It is a common response to trauma or stress and can vary widely in severity and experience.

 

Dissociation is a psychological defense mechanism that allows individuals to detach from distressing situations, memories, or feelings. It is an involuntary process that helps cope with overwhelming experiences, particularly trauma.

 

This can look like: Daydreaming, Becoming absorbed in a book or movie, Losing track of time, Feeling detached from oneself (depersonalization), Feeling detached from surroundings (derealization), Having memory gaps for important personal information or events (dissociative amnesia), multiple personality disorders, feeling disconnected from oneself or the environment, Experiencing emotional numbness or detachment, Memory lapses, gaps in recall, Feeling that the world is unreal or dreamlike

 

 

Causes of Disassociation could include: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, war, accidents, experiencing natural disasters, Severe stress or overwhelming experiences, Chronic childhood abuse or neglect, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety disorders

 

Dissociation functions as a protective mechanism. When a person faces intolerable stress or trauma, dissociation helps by disconnecting conscious awareness from distressing memories, feelings, or thoughts. By doing so, it temporarily shields the individual from emotional pain.

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While dissociation can be adaptive in the short term, providing immediate relief from trauma, chronic dissociation can Impair daily functioning, Cause difficulties in relationships, Lead to feelings of confusion or fragmentation and reduce overall quality of life.