If you know someone who experiences dissociation or dissociates often, it's essential to approach the situation with empathy, understanding, and support. Dissociation is a coping mechanism that some individuals use to deal with overwhelming or traumatic experiences. Here are some helpful things you can do to support someone who is dissociated or dissociates frequently:
Educate yourself: Learn about dissociation, its causes, and its effects. Understand that it is a survival mechanism that helps individuals cope with distressing situations. The more you know, the better equipped you will be to provide support.
Validate their experiences: When someone is dissociating, it might be challenging for them to explain what they are going through. Be nonjudgmental and validate their feelings and experiences. Let them know that their feelings are real and that you believe them.
Be patient and understanding: Dissociation can be a complex and confusing experience for both the individual and those around them. Be patient and avoid pressuring the person to "snap out of it." Give them the time and space they need to come back to the present.
Create a safe environment: Make sure the person feels safe and secure when they are with you. Avoid sudden loud noises or other triggers that might worsen their dissociation.
Offer grounding techniques: Grounding techniques can help bring someone back to the present moment. Encourage them to focus on sensory experiences, like touching something with a different texture, feeling the ground beneath their feet, or describing objects in the room.
Use calming language: Speak in a soothing and gentle tone. Avoid aggressive or confrontational language that might exacerbate their dissociation.
Respect boundaries: If the person needs some space or time alone to cope with their dissociation, respect their boundaries and allow them that space.
Encourage professional help: If the dissociation is frequent and significantly impacting the person's daily life, suggest seeking professional help. A therapist or counselor experienced in trauma and dissociation can provide valuable support and coping strategies.
Be a consistent presence: Offer your support and understanding consistently. Knowing that they have someone who cares can be comforting for someone dealing with dissociation.
Self-care for yourself: Supporting someone who experiences dissociation can be challenging. Make sure you take care of yourself, too, and seek support from friends, family, or professionals if needed.
Remember, everyone's experience with dissociation is unique, so the best approach may vary from person to person. The key is to be understanding, compassionate, and nonjudgmental, while also encouraging them to seek professional help if necessary.