What is Dissociation
When we experience trauma, and this is different for all of us, we react in ways individual to us. But
there are some common symptoms that can develop particularly if we don’t get the support that we
need. One of these symptoms is dissociation; this is the human bodies greatest survival technique.
It happens when our mind, body and emotions feel so overwhelmed that the brain seems to flip a
switch in order to reduce the impact of the overwhelming feelings. Dissociation can last for a few
seconds to hours, depending on the severity of the trauma. It is an unconscious reaction triggered
by the nervous system. It is a way of tolerating the intolerable, even if it is now in the past.
We have all probably experienced dissociation at some point in our lives, whether it is simply as a
daydream, driving a car and not remember the journey, or just a kind of forgetfulness. But
dissociation as a result of trauma can cause confusion and disorientation. Other people may notice
someone being “zoned out”, they may be unable to follow instructions and they may even seem to
lie despite the obvious evidence because they have no memory of what has just happened.
If someone has experienced trauma, then there will be memories of this trauma which may trigger
an emotional response. It is these triggers that can be understood and then the dissociation can be
delayed.
It is useful to think of our memories as a series of files on a computer. When there has been trauma
these files become disorganised, without proper order, and may appear on the computer desktop
instead of being neatly filed under precise categories.
Human beings have an inbuilt protective system to help us survive the worst situations. We all react
differently to stress and trauma. We may want to fight, run away/avoid situations (flight), become
immobile/lethargic (freeze), submit (be compliant in conflict) or attach ourselves to others or things
for protection. Talking to a counsellor can help the individual identify typical reactions to stress and
trauma, helping to delay or avoid dissociation, and go on to learn how to respond differently. Thus
helping with the healing process.
If you want to know more about dissociation please click the following links:
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/dissociation-and-
dissociative-disorders/about-dissociation/
https://www.rethink.org/advice-and-information/about-mental-illness/learn-more-about-
conditions/dissociation-and-dissociative-identity-disorder-did/
Diane
EWG Counsellor