The concept of dissociation could be defined as the sensation that consciousness is separated from the body, that is, a phenomenon of depersonalization that generates an experience of feeling outside one’s own body. Psychologist Rosario Linares explains that it consists of an adaptive mechanism, whose function is precisely that, to disconnect the mind from reality. Something that usually happens in extreme situations in which a person’s “psychological coping resources” are overwhelmed. Which forces the brain to react this way.
Dissociation develops as an emergency mechanism from the unconscious. “It is a ‘safe distance’ that reduces the emotional impact, tension, fear and pain of the moment,” explains the specialist. So it usually happens in extreme cases, such as abuse or sexual assault. Since the mind cannot bear to be present in a traumatic situation, it escapes from reality. And this has a series of consequences.
Although dissociation represents an essential survival mechanism, it can have more complex consequences. For example, this dissociation begins to be experienced frequently on a daily basis. And, in more serious cases, psychologist Rosario Linares states that, when this dissociation is not overcome and is not integrated into the patient’s experiences, dissociative disorders may develop.
Therefore, when dealing with dissociation as such, the most important thing will be to take into account why it occurs. Whether it is a response to a traumatic event or not. And, in the first case, whether or not this has been overcome by the victim. Therefore, adequate psychological support should be received.
When it comes to dissociation, psychologist Jade Wu differentiates between two types: depersonalization and derealization. The first has to do with feeling outside your own body, while the second has to do with the environment, as if everything were seen “through a veil.” If you experience these sensations during your daily life, the expert recommends a series of formulas that help you stay connected to the present.
