Definition of Dissociation.
Dissociation was first coined by french Psychotherapist Janet Pierre.
Here an individual becomes disconnected from his own thoughts, memories, feelings or identities.
There’s a disconnect or detachment from reality or self (what many term as ‘being an observer of self’ )
This helps an individual to cope with overwhelming emotions or Trauma.
For instance;
It’s more common in a dangerous situation where one feels helpless, afraid or unable to escape from danger.
An individual who spaces out while driving only to miss an exit.
It’s also manifested where one is faced with a reality that one finds hard to cope with for instance;
In a situation where individuals are grieving and mourning over the death of a close relative, the dissociated individual may choose to sit in the corner seemingly a bit confused acting like they don’t understand what’s going on. Their mind has dissociated or detached them from reality because reality is too harsh to cope with.
Disconnection between the mind and body a condition where a person feels detached from themselves or their surroundings is also an example of this.
Zoning out in the face of conflicts.In childhood, Dissociation was adopted in situations where physical escape was impossible. The psychological escape became the alternative.
Other Examples of mild and harmless dissociation include boredom, daydreaming, or zoning out that occur when the mind is either overwhelmed with information or is forced to process the information it does not feel like processing.
Types of Dissociation
1. Attention Dissociation (Zoning Out)
Here the mind “checks out.” it’s like a mental blackout from an experience.
2. Emotional Dissociation (Numbing)
Where emotions feel distant, muted, or absent. Nothing seems meaningful.
3. Somatic Dissociation (Loss of Interoception) where one stops feeling physical sensations such as hunger, pain, or bodily “presence.”
4. Depersonalization / Derealization
Which distorts perception. Ie; “An individual watches themselves from outside.” / “The world feels unreal, like a dream.” This creates a psychological distance from trauma or danger.
5. Structural Dissociation (Fragmented Identity)
There are subtle shifts in self-image, sudden emotional flips, inner conflict, and memory gaps.
It helps to compartmentalize unbearable experiences and maintain daily functioning.
6. Dorsal Collapse / Void State
It’s a Total shutdown (Total Blackout) with no thoughts, no sensations, no identity. There’s a feeling of non-existence. It offers extreme self-protection especially when all other strategies fail.
How to Manage Dissociation.
• You can go for talking therapies where a psychotherapist or counsellor may help you .
•Practice Grounding techniques, body awareness exercises, and movement practices that are particularly useful for reconnecting to the present moment and reducing feelings of detachment.
•Identify individuals that make you feel safe and secure, such as people, places, or memories.
•Practice mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or focused attention, to cultivate present
📌 Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience frequent or severe dissociation, consider seeking support from a qualified mental health professional.