Dissociation is a psychological and neurological phenomenon that involves a detachment from one's thoughts, emotions, sensations, or identity. It can range from mild feelings of detachment to more severe dissociative experiences, where individuals may feel disconnected from reality or lose track of time. Dissociation often occurs as a response to stress, trauma, or overwhelming emotions.
During dissociation, several changes can happen in the body:
Autonomic nervous system: The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion. During dissociation, there can be shifts in ANS activity. Some people may experience an increase in heart rate and breathing, while others may experience a decrease, leading to feelings of detachment or numbness.
Hormonal changes: Dissociation can trigger the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones prepare the body for a "fight-or-flight" response, which can further contribute to feelings of detachment and altered awareness.
Brain activity: Brain imaging studies have shown that different areas of the brain are involved during dissociative experiences. The default mode network (DMN), associated with self-awareness and self-referential thinking, may be less active during dissociation. Meanwhile, other brain regions involved in processing emotions and sensory information might also show altered activity.
Memory and perception: Dissociation can affect memory and perception. Some individuals may have difficulty forming memories of the dissociative episode, leading to memory gaps or blackouts. Others may have distorted perceptions of time or their surroundings.
Emotional processing: Emotional processing can be disrupted during dissociation, leading to emotional numbing or a sense of detachment from one's feelings.
Regarding the conscious or unconscious nature of dissociation, it can vary. In some cases, dissociation might be a conscious coping mechanism. For example, someone might intentionally "zone out" to cope with stress or emotional pain. However, dissociation can also occur involuntarily and unconsciously in response to overwhelming or traumatic experiences. In these cases, the person may not be aware of the dissociative state or have limited awareness of what they experienced during that time.
It's important to note that while dissociation can be a protective response to distressing situations, chronic or severe dissociation can be problematic and may require professional support. If you or someone you know is experiencing frequent or distressing dissociative episodes, seeking help from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, is recommended.