Dissociative Disorders→

Dissociative Disorders

Dissociative disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by disruptions or gaps in the normal integration of consciousness, memory, identity, emotion, perception, body representation, motor control, and behavior. These disruptions often involve a sense of detachment from oneself or one's surroundings. Dissociation is a defense mechanism that the mind uses to cope with trauma or overwhelming stress.

Dissociative Disorder Symptoms

A qualified mental health professional should make a diagnosis of dissociative disorder after conducting a thorough assessment of symptoms and their impact on functioning. While dissociative disorder may manifest with other symptoms, the following are the most prevalent.

Depersonalization

Individuals may experience a persistent or recurrent sense of detachment from their own body, thoughts, feelings, or sensations. They may feel like they are observing themselves from outside their own body.

Derealization

Derealization involves a persistent or recurrent sense of detachment from the external world or surroundings. The world may seem unreal or distorted.

Dissociative Amnesia

Dissociative amnesia refers to the inability to recall important personal information, usually related to a traumatic or stressful event. The memory loss is more extensive than ordinary forgetfulness.

Identity Disturbance

Dissociative Identity Disorder is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identity states or personality states that control an individual's behavior, consciousness, and memory.

Dissociative Disorder Therapies

There are various therapeutic approaches designed to address different aspects of dissociative disorders. The below therapies are just a few of the care options available, each offering unique strategies to support individuals on their journey to improved mental health.

EMDR Therapy



EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a powerful and evidence-based therapy approach that helps individuals process and heal from trauma.










Internal Family Systems/Parts Work

IFS and Parts Work Therapy, delves into an individual's psyche, exploring internal "parts" or sub-personalities. The goal is to facilitate dialogue and integration among these parts under the guidance of the core, compassionate "Self." Through visualization and introspection, clients work towards harmony, healing trauma, and achieving a more balanced and unified sense of self. IFS promotes personal growth, self-awareness, and addressing trauma, emotional regulation, and self-empowerment.

Somatic Therapy




Somatic therapy recognizes the mind-body connection in emotional well-being. It acknowledges that emotional experiences can manifest as physical symptoms. By bringing attention to bodily sensations, movements, and postures, somatic therapy explores and releases emotional tension. This fosters awareness, improves emotional regulation, and enhances overall well-being.



Dissociative Disorder FAQs

Have questions? We’re here to help.

  • How does the future look for someone with a dissociative disorder?

    The future for someone with a dissociative disorder can be shaped by various factors, including access to professional treatment, personal resilience, and the development of effective coping mechanisms. While dissociative disorders can pose significant challenges, it is important to remember that recovery and symptom management are possible. With appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms, improve their mental health, and enhance their quality of life.

  • How does it feel to have a Dissociative Disorder?

    Having a dissociative disorder can be an incredibly challenging experience. Individuals with dissociative disorders often struggle with a fragmented sense of self, feeling disconnected from their own thoughts, emotions, and even their own identity. They may experience periods of amnesia, where they have no memory of certain events or aspects of their lives. These experiences can be distressing and disorienting, making it difficult to navigate daily life and form stable relationships.

  • What are examples of Dissociative Disorder?

    Examples of dissociative disorders include dissociative identity disorder (previously known as multiple personality disorder), dissociative amnesia, depersonalization/derealization disorder, and other specified dissociative disorder. Dissociative identity disorder is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities within an individual. Dissociative amnesia involves memory loss that goes beyond normal forgetfulness and is usually triggered by a traumatic event. Depersonalization/derealization disorder is marked by feelings of detachment from oneself or the surrounding environment.

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