How to Cope With Dissociation

Dissociation is a mental health condition that involves feelings of disconnect within a patient. The patient feels out of control of his body or even separated from his physical body. A dissociative patient experiences phases of memory gaps or feelings of being a stranger to herself. The exact causes of dissociation are disputed among therapists, but they agree that early abuse or adult trauma are contributing factors. Coping with these symptoms, while you are receiving professional treatment, helps you have some control over your condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Explain your condition to your family, friends and your employer. Describe your symptoms and relate any important information from your therapist. Suggest things that they can do to help you, such as making eye contact with you when they speak or touching your shoulder during conversations. Explain that you are seeing a professional therapist for your condition and working through your symptoms.

• 2

  Get your loved ones involved in your therapy by inviting them to your appointments. Ask your therapist to speak to them and offer some helpful suggestions to help you cope with your daily symptoms.

• 3

  Take notes during the day. Keep track of specific things people tell you, important information from classes or meetings, or specific events that you witnessed. Write the time and date for every set of notes. Use this as a method for focusing yourself on the moment during your day.

• 4

  Break out of the autopilot mode by making subtle changes in your daily life. These changes will force you to think about your actions, realize that something is different, and recognize that you are making those differences.

• 5

  Select an ally from among your loved ones, someone available during your day who understands your problem and is willing to help. Alert the person that you need direct help during your coping process. Call him anytime you feel your symptoms growing worse. Ask him to help you by speaking to you about a range of familiar topics, such as big sports trades or recent plot developments from your favorite television show.