Dealing with Dissociation? Take These Steps to Get Grounded Again
We all daydream. It's the state of mind we go into when our thoughts start to wander off. Whether you do this during a lunch break, during work, or just watching TV, it's completely normal.
So what makes dissociation so different? After all, isn't it just your mind wandering off? No, not quite.
Dissociation is a mental health disorder that affects many people. As with all other mental health concerns, this doesn't mean that there is something wrong with you. Though, at times, you may feel like there is. Just because you have a dissociation disorder does not mean there is no hope. It is a highly treatable condition, but you may want to know more about this before you talk to someone about it.
What Is Dissociation?
Dissociation is a much more complex issue than daydreaming. It's normal for our minds to think about other things when we are doing something else. To look outside the window and dream about warmer, and sunnier days.
Dissociation is when you feel completely disconnected from everything around you. Most often, those who suffer from dissociation do not feel in tune with their own thoughts, feelings, memories, and surroundings. It feels as though there is no true sense of identity or any perception of time.
It is common for people with dissociation to have gaps in their memories. From conversations or events, it may not seem as if that ever happened. When others say, "Do you remember..." you may find yourself combing through your memory for something you can't recall at all.
In some cases, dissociation can cause someone to feel as though the world around them or even themselves is not real.
How Long Does It Last?
This really just depends on the person and why dissociation is happening. It can go away on its own but can last hours, days, weeks, or even months. If it has been happening for a longer period of time, treatment will be your best line of defense to begin feeling grounded and present again.
How Can You Feel Grounded With Dissociation?
How can you even begin to feel grounded when you feel as if everything is a dream? What is the first step when the disconnect you feel is so pervasive? Fortunately, you have options for relief.
Seek Treatment
When you experience dissociation, it is important to actively seek treatment for it. Going to a therapist for help does not mean there is anything wrong with you. It's actually a great personal sign of strength. If you have noticed that you go through periods of dissociation or it has been a prolonged experience, it is important to begin uncovering why this is happening to you.
Working with a licensed therapist, they may suggest a variety of therapeutic methods that can treat it. Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help you see and change negative thoughts and patterns.
In a lot of cases, a traumatic event can also cause dissociation. Not only from the trauma itself but from anything in the future, as well. This is the brain's way of protecting someone from the full impact that a traumatic event can have.
Different Methods Of Self-Care
In conjunction with therapy, you may find that you dissociate less often if you:
Make sure you are getting enough sleep
Eating a nutritious diet, staying away from refined and processed foods as much as you can
Exercising, such as cardio or running. Which are great activities to keep your mind active.
Grounding exercises themself are great, as well. Focus on the sounds around you, the feeling of your feet on the ground, or a blanket wrapped around your shoulders.
Living with dissociation can be a challenge that feels hard to overcome. If you are ready to begin living in the moment and enjoying the present, we are ready to support you. Please contact us today for trauma treatment.