In a dissociative state, individuals may experience a disconnection from their thoughts, feelings, identity, or even physical sensations. The level of dissociation can vary, and some people might find that they can move their eyes while dissociated, while others may have difficulty doing so.
Moving one's eyes is typically considered a voluntary action that involves the control of eye muscles by the brain. In a mild dissociative state, a person might still have some control over their physical movements, including eye movements. However, in more severe dissociative states, individuals might experience a sense of "out-of-body" detachment or a feeling of being disconnected from their physical body, which could affect their ability to control voluntary actions.
In some cases, dissociative states can be accompanied by a phenomenon called "dissociative stupor," where the person may appear unresponsive and have reduced movement, including slowed or limited eye movements. However, this is a complex area, and the exact nature of dissociative experiences can vary significantly among individuals.
It's important to note that dissociation is a psychological phenomenon with a wide spectrum of manifestations, and it can be a part of various mental health conditions, including dissociative disorders. If you or someone you know is experiencing dissociative states or has concerns about their ability to control movements or any other dissociative symptoms, it's essential to seek professional evaluation and support from a qualified mental health professional. They can help assess the situation, provide appropriate diagnosis and treatment, and offer coping strategies to manage dissociative experiences effectively.