7 Types of Dissociation and How to Identify Them

Introduction

Dissociation occurs when a person disconnects from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity. It is a psychological phenomenon that manifests in multiple forms and can affect anyone, often as a coping mechanism for trauma or stress. This blog aims to shed light on the different forms dissociation can take to help you better understand what you or someone else might be experiencing.

1. Depersonalization

   You feel disconnected from yourself, like an outside observer of your thoughts, emotions, and/or actions. The world around you may seem distant, like you're in a fog. You may experience a diminished sense of self or control.

2. Derealization

   You feel disconnected from the outside world. It may feel like you're in a movie, dream, or false reality. Objects may even be distorted in size or shape, your surroundings seem surreal.

3. Dissociative Amnesia

   You don't remember things that you should, and you're aware of the gap. Perhaps you can't remember important or traumatic events, people from your past, or personal information. Sometimes entire periods of time in the distant or recent past cannot be remembered.

4. Dissociative Fugue

   A temporary state (hours-months) where you end up in an unexpected place or in the middle of a task and can't remember how you got there. You may not be aware of the amnesia accompanying a fugue state until you find evidence for it or someone tells you.

5. Emotional Numbing

   You don't have a good sense of how you feel about certain events or everyday life. You feel numb, especially during or after distress. It may be difficult to express emotions or be aware of them, even if you have the physical symptoms of emotions.

6. Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)

   You have two or more distinct identities, often referred to as "alters" or "parts." Alters may have different names, ages, gender identities, and personality traits. You may experience amnesia when one alter is not aware of what happens when another alter is in control.

7. Unspecified Dissociation

   You experience forms of dissociation, but they don't always fit into a specific type. Your experiences vary or you don't have enough information to identify what you're going through.

Understanding dissociation in its multiple forms can be a significant step towards self-awareness and mental well-being. If you or someone you know is negatively affected by dissociative experiences, therapy can help! Contact us to set up a free consultation.