When a therapist says that you have dissociated from your trauma, it means that you have used the psychological defense mechanism of dissociation to cope with the overwhelming or traumatic experiences you have had. Dissociation involves a disconnection from thoughts, feelings, memories, or even a sense of identity, and it is a way for the mind to protect itself from emotional pain or distress.
What it means to dissociate from trauma: Dissociation can lead to memory gaps or a lack of awareness of certain aspects of the traumatic event. In some cases, people may have "missing" or fragmented memories related to the traumatic experience. These gaps in memory occur because the mind has compartmentalized or "shut off" certain parts of the traumatic event as a way to shield you from the full emotional impact.
Will you remember the missing parts that caused the trauma? The retrieval of memories that have been dissociated or repressed can be a complex process and is highly individual. It's not guaranteed that you will automatically remember all the missing parts caused by the trauma, and it's important to proceed with care and sensitivity when exploring traumatic memories.
In therapy, especially in trauma-focused therapy, the goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can gradually explore and process the traumatic memories at a pace that feels comfortable for you. The therapist will use various techniques and approaches to help you access and work through those memories when you are ready and willing.
It's essential to remember that the brain's protective mechanism of dissociation serves a purpose—to shield you from overwhelming emotions. Therefore, the process of remembering and working through trauma must be done cautiously and with professional guidance. It's not about forcing yourself to recall every detail but rather about processing the emotions and experiences in a way that allows for healing and resolution.
Therapy can be beneficial in addressing dissociation and trauma, as it can help you understand how dissociation has affected your life and provide you with tools to cope with emotions and memories related to the trauma. With the help of a qualified therapist, you can gradually work through the trauma and its impact on your life, leading to a better understanding of yourself and increased well-being.