Have you ever felt disconnected from your surroundings, like you’re watching your life unfold
from the outside? This experience might be more than just daydreaming, it could be dissociation.
Dissociation is a mental process that causes a person to feel detached from their thoughts,
feelings, memories, or sense of identity. While it can be a normal response to stress or trauma,
frequent or intense dissociation can interfere with daily life and signal an underlying mental
health concern.
What Causes Dissociation?
Dissociation often stems from overwhelming or traumatic experiences. These may include
childhood abuse, neglect, combat exposure, sexual assault, or witnessing violence. In some
cases, dissociation serves as a coping mechanism, allowing the mind to “escape” when the body
cannot. Other contributing factors can include chronic stress, substance use, or certain mental
health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), borderline personality disorder
(BPD), or dissociative identity disorder (DID).
Common Symptoms of Dissociation
The signs of dissociation can vary, but they often include:
- Feeling disconnected from your body or surroundings (depersonalization or
derealization) - Memory lapses or gaps in time
- A sense of being emotionally numb or detached
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling like you’re in a fog
- Feeling like the world around you isn’t real
These symptoms may last for a few minutes or persist for much longer, depending on the
severity and cause.
Treatment Options for Dissociation
The good news is that dissociation is treatable. Therapy is the most effective form of treatment,
particularly trauma-focused approaches like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and
Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), or Internal Family Systems (IFS). These
therapies help individuals process traumatic memories and build healthier coping strategies.
At Creative Healing Mental Health Center, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care for
individuals experiencing dissociation and trauma-related symptoms. If you or someone you love
feels disconnected or is struggling to stay grounded, you’re not alone. Healing is possible.
Schedule a consultation today to begin your journey toward reconnection and emotional
wellness.
Email: [email protected]
Call us: 715-797-2770