Dissociation and Dissociative Disorders

About Dissociation

Many people may experience dissociation (dissociate) during their life. If you dissociate, you may feel disconnected from yourself and the world around you. For example, you may feel detached from your body or feel as though the world around you is unreal. Remember, everyone’s experience of dissociation is different. Dissociation is one way the mind copes with too much stress, such as during a traumatic event. There are also common, everyday experiences of dissociation that you may have. Examples of this are when you become so absorbed in a book or film that you lose awareness of your surroundings. Or when you drive a familiar route and arrive at your destination without any memory of how you got there. Experiences of dissociation can last for a short time (hours or days) or for much longer (weeks or months). Dissociation may be something that you experience for a short time while something traumatic is happening. But you also may have learned to dissociate as a way of coping with stressful experiences. This may be something that you’ve done since you were young.

Watch the video below to learn about Dissociative Disorders:

Dissociative Disorders

There are various types of dissociative disorders, each with its own symptoms and characteristics.

Causes

Dissociation might be a way to cope with very stressful experiences. It can also be a symptom of mental health problems or a side effect of medication.

Diagnosis

Psychiatrists use specific criteria to diagnose dissociative disorders. These criteria help in identifying the type and severity of the disorder.

Coping with Dissociation

There are various strategies to manage dissociation, including grounding techniques and therapy.

Treatments for Dissociative Disorders

Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication, and support groups.

Non-Epileptic Attack Disorder (NEAD)

NEAD is a condition that can cause dissociative symptoms. It requires specific management strategies.Non-Epileptic Attack Disorder (NEAD) refers to seizures that resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Instead, NEAD seizures are often a physical reaction to distressing triggers such as sensations, thoughts, emotions, or difficult situations. These seizures can involve uncontrolled movements, sensations, or behaviors, and may look similar to epileptic seizures or fainting1. Management Strategies for NEAD: Understanding the Diagnosis: It’s crucial to understand and accept the diagnosis. NEAD is not caused by a neurological disease but rather by a trance-like state in the brain. Recognizing Warning Symptoms: Many patients experience warning symptoms before an attack. Learning to recognize these can help in managing and potentially preventing seizures. Self-Help Techniques: Techniques such as grounding exercises, mindfulness, and stress management can be beneficial. Therapy: Psychological therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help address underlying emotional triggers. Support Networks: Engaging with support groups and organizations can provide additional help and resources.

For Friends and Family

Guidance on how to support someone experiencing dissociation, including tips for understanding and helping.Supporting someone experiencing dissociation can be challenging, but your understanding and compassion can make a significant difference. Here are some tips for understanding and helping: Educate Yourself: Learn about dissociation and its symptoms. Understanding that it can be a protective mechanism for those who have faced trauma can help you approach the situation with empathy. Listen Without Judgment: Create a safe space for them to share their experiences. Listen actively and validate their feelings without trying to argue or dismiss their experiences. Stay Calm: If they are experiencing dissociative symptoms, remain calm and reassuring. Help them feel safe and grounded by speaking in a gentle tone and maintaining a non-threatening demeanor. Encourage Grounding Techniques: Suggest grounding exercises that can help them reconnect with the present moment. This might include focusing on their breath, describing their surroundings, or engaging in physical sensations (like holding a textured object). Avoid Triggers: Be mindful of situations or topics that may trigger dissociation. If you know certain environments or discussions are difficult for them, try to avoid those when possible. Encourage Professional Help: Gently suggest that they consider seeking support from a mental health professional who understands dissociation and trauma. A trained therapist can provide appropriate strategies and support. Be Patient: Recovery and understanding can take time. Be patient with their process and offer consistent support without pressure. By being a supportive presence and encouraging them to seek professional help, you can play a vital role in their journey toward healing.

Useful Contacts

List of resources and support organizations for those experiencing dissociation and dissociative disorders. Emergency Services: If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 911 for immediate help. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 to talk to a free, confidential counselor available 24/7. Crisis Text Line: For support with a wide range of issues, text HOME to 741741. National Domestic Violence Hotline: Contact 1-800-799-7233 or visit www.thehotline.org/help for support related to domestic violence. The Trevor Project: Offers support for LGBTQ+ youth at 866-488-7386 or text 678678. Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: Talk to professional crisis counselors at 1-800-422-4453 or visit childhelphotline.org. SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-622-4357 for support with substance abuse issues. These resources can provide immediate support and guidance for individuals experiencing dissociation and related challenges.