Dissociation

Dissociation is a psychological process characterized by a disconnection between an individual's thoughts, identity, consciousness, or perception. It can manifest in various ways, from feeling detached from one's body or surroundings to experiencing memory lapses, amnesia, or identity fragmentation. Dissociation often occurs as a response to extreme stress, trauma, or overwhelming emotions, serving as a coping mechanism to protect the individual from the distressing experience. While some level of dissociation is a normal and adaptive response to stress, excessive or chronic dissociation can become a symptom of dissociative disorders, such as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) or Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder, which require clinical evaluation and treatment. Understanding dissociation is crucial in addressing the underlying causes and supporting individuals who experience it to improve their overall mental well-being.