Question

When you listen to the internal dialogue of your headmates, do you consider that a form of dissociation? I feel like my mind is not focusing on anything else. I don't know if I'm listening because I'm bored, stressed, or if I'm dissociating. I've noticed when I'm in a crucial setting like class, the internal dialogue can get tuned out a bit easier. If it's at work, it's more difficult to tune it out (maybe it's because I'm a cashier, that can get particularly boring doing the same thing repeatedly, so I'm unintentionally attuned to listen to what they're saying, maybe). If it's in therapy, I can almost have zero control of it. They're babbling about their feelings towards the therapist, one constantly asks when we can leave, and I can even hear voices coming from the innerworld which never

Answer 1

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex internal dialogue and possibly experiencing dissociative tendencies. Dissociation is a disconnection between thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory that can be a response to trauma, stress, or overwhelming emotions. It is essential to understand that I am not a mental health professional, and if you are experiencing distress or uncertainty about your mental health, it is crucial to seek guidance from a qualified mental health professional.

Some common signs of dissociation include feeling disconnected from one's thoughts, emotions, and surroundings, experiencing gaps in memory, feeling like you are observing yourself from outside your body, and hearing internal voices or conversations.

Having internal dialogue (or headmates, as you refer to them) can be a form of dissociation if it involves distinct identities, personalities, or voices that are separate from your own sense of self. It may indicate the presence of dissociative identity tendencies. However, I cannot diagnose you, and only a mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and understanding of your experiences.

It's important to discuss your experiences openly with your therapist and explore these internal dialogues and their impact on your daily life and functioning. Being open with your therapist can help them better understand your situation and provide appropriate support and coping strategies.

Feeling safe and supported in therapy is essential, and if you feel that allowing the internal dialogue to unfold during sessions is beneficial, you should discuss this with your therapist. Therapy can be a space where you can explore and understand these experiences in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

In summary, what you describe may indeed be a form of dissociation, but it is essential to consult with a mental health professional to get a proper evaluation and guidance on how to cope with and manage these experiences effectively. They can work with you to develop grounding techniques and coping strategies to navigate your internal experiences and improve your well-being. Remember, seeking help is a courageous step towards better mental health, and there are resources available to support you on this journey.