You might have heard about dissociation, or it could be a new concept for you, but it’s important to know it exists. People sometimes use it as a way to cope when dealing with intense trauma. If you find yourself doing this, you might need to consider seeking help from a residential treatment center in Orange County. But before making that decision, it’s helpful to understand what dissociation is all about.
Dissociation is when you temporarily lose touch with reality. You might not recognize yourself or know what’s happening around you. This can last from half an hour to several days, or even longer in some cases.
Often, dissociation kicks in because of traumatic experiences. When something is too overwhelming to face while staying fully conscious, your mind might switch to autopilot mode. You can still go through the motions of daily life, but it’s as though your brain has checked out.
One interesting aspect of dissociation is that it can first occur in response to a single traumatic event. For example, if you survive a plane crash in the ocean and are rescued from dangerous waters, you might not remember the ordeal when asked about it later. However, if you’re repeatedly subjected to trauma, like ongoing abuse during childhood, dissociation can become a regular coping mechanism, protecting your mental state from further harm.
Typically, dissociation occurs when something really distressing happens, and it’s not a typical response unless your life is in turmoil. Most people never experience it, but if you do, it’s a sign something has gone seriously wrong. In extreme cases, frequent dissociation can lead to dissociative identity disorder, where multiple identities form within you as a defense against stress.
Dissociation isn’t always negative. It can be a mental shield preventing a complete breakdown. But if you’ve ever experienced it, even unknowingly, it’s a strong indication that you might need professional help to deal with the underlying trauma. A mental health professional can help identify if you’ve experienced dissociation and guide you toward healing from those painful events.
