Dissociating can feel extremely scary and overwhelming. It can feel like we are out of control, or maybe we don't even know we dissociated until after the fact...
Dissociating can feel extremely scary and overwhelming.
It can feel like we are out of control, or maybe we don't even know we dissociated until after the fact.
So what is dissociation?
And how do make it stop?
Read ahead to find out more about coping skills for dissociation!
Before we can figure out how to stop disassociating, let's get clear on what disassociation is.
According to Psychiatry.org, dissociation is a disconnection between a person's thoughts, memories, feelings, actions, or sense of who he or she is."
Dissociation is affiliated with the freeze response and can happen during a traumatic experience that may otherwise be too much to bear whether physically, emotionally, or both. Following a trauma, if we are unable to re-establish safety, our brain may continue to search for imminent threats.
When we get triggered, we may experience some of the same symptoms we experienced during the original trauma.
Below are some indicators you may experience dissociation:
-feeling foggy
-feeling numb
-unable to focus
-becoming tired/spacey
-missing or forgetting up to hours (or even days at a time)
For more severe cases, people may experience:
-depersonalization-feeling like you are out of your body
-derealization-feeling like the world around you is not real
It is important to note that we all dissociate to some degree.
Have you ever pulled into your driveway and realize you don't remember the drive at all?
To an extent, "spacing out" it is normal.
When it is persistent and affects our daily functioning, we should start using coping skills for dissociation.
4-Step Guide to Stop Dissociation
Dissociating is a frightening and disorienting trauma response.
However, there are coping skills for dissociation for when you start to feel spacey or numb.
Remember to carry your grounding toolbox wherever you go.
You can even use your tools when you're not triggered too���it'll make you more likely to use them in moments of need!
https://www.verywellmind.com/dissociation-2797292
https://www.winona.edu/resilience/media/grounding-worksheet.pdfhttps://positivepsychology.com/distress-tolerance-skills/
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.
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