Understanding Dissociative Disorders

Hi there, I'm Dr. Sarah Baxley. Today, we're going to talk about something called dissociative disorders. It might sound like a big, scary term, but don't worry - we'll break it down together.

Dissociation is a way the mind copes with overwhelming stress or trauma by disconnecting from thoughts, feelings, memories, or even a sense of identity. It's like a defense mechanism that helps protect us from things that are too hard to handle.

There are different types of dissociative disorders. One type is called dissociative amnesia, where a person can't remember important information about themselves. Another type is dissociative identity disorder, where a person has two or more distinct identities or personality states. There's also depersonalization/derealization disorder, where a person feels detached from themselves or the world around them.

Now, you might be wondering, "What causes these disorders?" Well, they often stem from experiences of trauma, such as abuse, accidents, or extreme stress. These overwhelming experiences can trigger the mind to dissociate as a way to protect itself.

In the real world, dissociation can manifest in different ways. For example, someone might forget important personal information or have gaps in their memory. They might feel like they're watching themselves from outside their body or feel like the world around them isn't real.

But here's the good news: there are treatments available for dissociative disorders. Therapy, particularly a type called trauma-focused therapy, can help individuals process their traumatic experiences and learn healthier coping mechanisms. Medication and other forms of therapy can also be beneficial in managing symptoms.

If you or someone you know is struggling with dissociative symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out for help. You can schedule an appointment with us by calling 850-842-1403 or by visiting our website. Remember, it's important to take care of your mental health, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

Take care and remember, you're not alone in this journey to healing.

Dr. Sarah Baxley