What is Dissociation?
Dissociation is a defense mechanism that helps the mind cope with distress. Dissociation involves disconnecting oneself/psyche from threatening ideas, feelings, situations and traumatic experiences (American Psychological Association, 2022; Connor, 2015).
What Causes Dissociation?
People often experience dissociation when they feel powerless to do anything to change or stop a traumatic event.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dissociation may include memory loss (amnesia), a perception of people and things around you appearing unreal or distorted, blurred sense of identity, relationship problems, inability to cope well, and the onset of mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.
Possible Outcomes
Although dissociation can be a normal coping mechanism, it may also disrupt personal functioning. Consciousness, identity, memory and awareness of self and/or surroundings may be disturbed.
Statistics
Prior to COVID-19, roughly 2% of the US population reported experiences of dissociation that was disruptive to personal functioning. Following COVID-19, roughly 11% of the US population reported experiences of dissociation that disrupted personal functioning (Kate, Hopwood & Jamieson, 2020).
Effective Coping Strategies
Although, this is not an exhaustive list, effective stress management and relaxation techniques for dissociation may include grounding & breathing techniques, proper sleep, regular physical activity, listening to music, reading and guided imagery.
