Dissociative Disorder: Unraveling its secrets

Sep 19

Dissociation is a fascinating yet intricate phenomenon that involves disruptions in consciousness, memory, identity, and perception. When experienced intensely and recurrently, dissociation can lead to dissociative disorders, affecting an individual's sense of self and everyday functioning. By shedding light on this often-misunderstood topic, we can foster greater awareness and compassion for those affected by dissociation.

Defining Dissociation and Its Manifestations:

Dissociation is a psychological process wherein a person disconnects from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity.
Common manifestations of dissociation include depersonalization (feeling detached from oneself) and derealization (perceiving the environment as unreal or dreamlike).
Dissociation can also lead to memory gaps and amnesia, especially in cases of severe trauma.

Understanding Dissociative Disorders:

A. Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)

DID, previously known as multiple personality disorder, involves the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states.
Individuals with DID may experience amnesia for significant periods of time, during which another identity may take control.

B. Dissociative Amnesia:

Dissociative amnesia is characterized by the inability to recall important personal information, usually related to traumatic events.
Memory loss in dissociative amnesia is not due to neurological or physical causes.

C. Other Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD) and Unspecified Dissociative Disorder (UDD):

OSDD and UDD encompass dissociative symptoms that do not fit the criteria for other specific dissociative disorders.
These categories are used when an individual's symptoms do not neatly align with the defined criteria for DID or dissociative amnesia.

Prevalence and Impact:

Studies estimate that up to 74% of individuals experience mild dissociative experiences in their lifetime.
Dissociative disorders are relatively rare, affecting approximately 1-2% of the general population.
Prevalence rates of dissociative disorders are higher among individuals who have experienced severe trauma, such as childhood abuse.

Causes and Risk Factors:

Dissociation is often linked to trauma, particularly in cases of early childhood abuse or neglect.
Genetic and neurobiological factors may also contribute to the development of dissociative disorders.
Individuals with a history of other mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or borderline personality disorder, may be more susceptible to dissociation.

Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches:

Diagnosis of dissociative disorders requires a comprehensive evaluation by mental health professionals, including detailed interviews and assessments.
Psychotherapy, particularly trauma-focused therapy, is the primary treatment for dissociative disorders.
Medication may be used to address comorbid conditions or specific symptoms, such as depression or anxiety.

Final Overview:

Dissociation and dissociative disorders are complex psychological phenomena that can significantly impact an individual's sense of self and well-being. By gaining a deeper understanding of dissociation, we can recognize its various manifestations and provide appropriate support to those experiencing dissociative symptoms. Early diagnosis and trauma-informed therapies play a crucial role in assisting individuals on their journey towards healing and recovery. Through continued research and compassionate care, we can enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by dissociation and promote a more inclusive and empathetic society.

Written By Jacqueline Guajardo

Sources:

Ross, C. A., Ferrell, L., & Schroeder, E. (2019). Co-occurrence of dissociative identity disorder and borderline personality disorder. Journal of Trauma & Dissociation, 20(3), 260-272.
Dorahy, M. J., Brand, B. L., Sar, V., Krüger, C., Stavropoulos, P., Martínez-Taboas, A., ... & Middleton, W. (2014). Dissociative identity disorder: An empirical overview. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 48(5), 402-417.
Van Der Hart, O., Dorahy, M. J., & Van Dijke, A. (2017). Trauma, dissociation, and impulse dysregulation in eating disorders: A biopsychosocial perspective. Psychopathology, 50(3), 243-252.
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Publishing.