Dissociative disorders are complicated mental illnesses that interfere with the regular assimilation of memory, identity, perception, and consciousness. They tend to be traumatized and the defence system of the mind to cope with too much stress or painful experiences. Dissociation may be a transitory trauma response, but dissociative disorders are a chronic condition that disrupts normal functioning, interpersonal relationships, and the quality of life.
Dissociative disorders are severe psychological disorders that result in a lack of connection between the thoughts, identity, memory, feelings, and reality of a particular individual. Dissociated people tend to feel that they do not belong to themselves or to the world around them, as though they were living outside themselves or looking at life through a window.
Although some mild cases of dissociation may occur following severe stress or trauma, dissociative disorders are chronic conditions that disrupt normal day-to-day living and functioning. These disorders have generally been linked to previous trauma, including abuse, accidents, or combat.
The knowledge and treatment of dissociative disorders is critical in assisting the affected persons to re-establish stability, reconnect with their own selves, and lead healthier, fulfilling lives.
Many distinct types of dissociative disorders are known, each with its own set of symptoms and problems:
Also referred to as multiple personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder is a condition that arises when an individual becomes two or more distinct personality states or personalities. These identities may have different voices, behaviors, and even memories. DID is closely associated with extreme childhood trauma.
This disorder is characterized by a lack of remembering key personal details, in most cases following trauma or stress. Dissociative amnesia, in contrast to normal forgetfulness, suppresses memory in a manner that cannot be attributed to normal memory loss. In severe cases, an individual can completely lose his identity or his history.
This form of dissociative disorder is characterized by a continuous experience of being out of body (depersonalization) or of the surrounding world being unreal (derealization). People can call it dwelling in a dream, although they are completely awake and conscious.
Anybody could be a victim of dissociative disorders irrespective of age, gender, or background. But studies indicate that they are more prevalent in persons who have experienced:
These are disorders that are usually seen in adulthood or early adulthood. More often, women are diagnosed than men, but men can also have the problem, but are not diagnosed because of stigma or underreporting.
Depending on the form of dissociative disorder, symptoms may include:
In dissociative identity disorder, the symptoms can also include:
Trauma is the most common cause of dissociation and it is experienced mostly during childhood. Dissociation is a defense mechanism when a child has experienced an overwhelming amount of abuse or neglect, which is too painful to bear.
Other causes may include:
Although dissociation can assist an individual in overcoming traumatic experiences in the short run, it may be detrimental once it causes an inability to heal emotionally and to remain a regular person.
The treatment of dissociative disorder is aimed at assisting the individual to change his/her experiences, creating a more vibrant coping process, and reclaiming control of his/her life. Long-term care can be very effective and include a team of mental health professionals.
Psychotherapy is the most common form of treatment for dissociative disorders. Trauma-informed methods are strategies that therapists use to assist people in getting through painful memories, recognizing triggers, and eventually reconnecting to their own selves.
Some therapeutic approaches are common and include:
No special drugs exist to treat dissociative disorders. Nonetheless, drugs might be given to address some of the symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, or insomnia. Antidepressants (anti-anxiety medications or mood stabilizers) are often used as a component of a thorough treatment plan.
In severe symptomatic individuals, an inpatient treatment program may offer a secure and structured setting that allows individuals with severe symptoms to obtain round-the-clock care. The outpatient treatment can be appropriate when an individual can cope with everyday life, but still requires frequent treatment and attention.
Other supportive therapies can include:
Dissociative disorders are hard to recover from. Post-discharge support is critical and may be in the form of therapy, family support, or peer support groups that can keep the patient stable and prevent relapse.
Dissociative disorders are complicated, but they can be cured with proper treatment and care. Whether you or someone you love has been grappling with the symptoms of dissasosiation disorder, dissociative disorder, dissociative identity disorder, or dissociative personality disorder, be assured that help is on the way.
Our specialization at Florida Atlantic Coast Treatment Solutions is trauma-informed care that helps a person to heal and connect. Our trained staff offers tailored treatment options to manage the underlying causes as well as the symptoms of dissociative conditions.
Get started on the way to recovery and stability, Call us at (844) 643-2287 today.
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