Dissociative Disorders
Dissociative Disorders are a group of psychological conditions that involve a disconnection from one's thoughts, memories, feelings, or sense of identity. These disorders are often a result of intense trauma, serving as a defense mechanism to protect individuals from overwhelming emotional pain. The brain may separate distressing memories or experiences to help the person cope with what is too painful to confront directly.
Dr. Christopher Van Schenck, a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, specializes in treating patients with dissociative disorders at Nolensville Psychiatry, conveniently located near Nashville, Tennessee, and serving the surrounding areas including Franklin, Oak Hill, La Vergne, Smyrna, Brentwood, and more.
What Causes Dissociative Disorders?
Dissociative disorders often begin during childhood, a time when personal identity is still developing. However, they can also arise in adulthood, typically following traumatic experiences. The following factors may contribute to the development of dissociative disorders:
- Sexual abuse or assault
- Physical or emotional abuse
- Experiencing war or violence
- Natural disasters
- Kidnapping or captivity
- Severe emotional trauma
- Chaotic family environments
- Injury or major health trauma
- Invasive or traumatic medical procedures
Different Types of Dissociative Disorders
Although all dissociative disorders involve a disruption in the person's sense of self or their memory, they can manifest in distinct forms. Here are the main types of dissociative disorders:
Dissociative Amnesia
This disorder is characterized by sudden memory loss following a traumatic event, often seen in children. The person may lose all memories or only specific details related to the traumatic experience. The memory loss can be generalized (covering an entire period), localized (affecting only specific events or hours), selective (omitting certain aspects of an event), or systematized (forgetting details tied to certain people or places).
Dissociative Fugue
Dissociative fugue is a rare condition where an individual unexpectedly travels away from home or work and cannot recall their own identity. They may take on a new identity and experience confusion about their life. This state is temporary, but it can last for days, weeks, or longer.
Dissociative Identity Disorder
Previously known as multiple personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder (DID) involves the presence of two or more distinct identities within one person. Each identity may have its own unique behavior patterns, memories, and ways of perceiving the world. People with DID may feel like they are being controlled by other identities, often hearing voices or experiencing a sense of possession.
Depersonalization Disorder
In this disorder, individuals feel detached from their own bodies or thoughts. It can be as if they are observing themselves from outside their body. This sense of disconnection may come and go, but it can significantly interfere with their daily lives, relationships, and ability to work or function.
Common Symptoms of Dissociative Disorders
People with dissociative disorders often find it difficult to understand or express their symptoms. While they may sense that something is wrong, they may struggle to articulate the specifics of their condition. Symptoms commonly include:
- Confusion about personal identity
- Memory gaps surrounding important events or periods
- Feelings of depression, anxiety, or dread
- A sense of detachment from the self
- Perceptions that reality feels distorted or unreal
- Unexplained lapses in time or memory
These symptoms can be debilitating and, if left untreated, may lead to more severe mental health issues such as suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Timely intervention and treatment are essential for managing these disorders effectively.
How Are Dissociative Disorders Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a dissociative disorder involves a detailed evaluation of the patient's symptoms and medical history. The diagnosis is based on the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association. It is important to rule out other conditions such as substance abuse, neurological disorders, or medical conditions like epilepsy that may cause similar symptoms.
Treatment Approaches for Dissociative Disorders
Once diagnosed, dissociative disorders can be treated with a combination of therapeutic techniques and medications aimed at relieving symptoms and addressing underlying trauma. Common treatment options include:
- Psychotherapy, including trauma-focused therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns
- Hypnotherapy to help process memories and emotions
- Creative therapies such as art or music therapy
- Medications to manage symptoms, including antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications
Preventing Dissociative Disorders
Early intervention following a traumatic event is key to preventing the development of dissociative disorders. Supportive therapies, such as counseling, can help individuals process trauma more effectively and reduce the likelihood of dissociation. In children, therapies like play therapy or art therapy are often used to help them cope with their experiences without directly confronting the trauma. For adults, treatments like hypnosis or indirect therapy can help them process trauma without overwhelming them.