Dissociative disorders are characterized by an involuntary escape from reality characterized by a disconnection between thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory. People of all ages, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic status may experience a dissociative disorder.
The symptoms of a dissociative disorder generally first develop as a response to a traumatic event to keep those memories under control. Stressful situations can worsen symptoms and cause inadequate functioning in daily activities. Each person’s symptoms may be different due to the type of dissociation they are experiencing.
Signs and symptoms include: significant memory loss of specific times, people, and events; out of body experiences such as if you were watching a movie of yourself; mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts; a sense of detachment from your emotions or feeling emotional numbness; or a lack of sense of self-identity.
Treatments include a combination of medications and therapies. Antidepressants can help along with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is another option, as well as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Ask your doctor what is right for you if you feel that you have experienced any of these symptoms.
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