Witnessing someone dissociating can be a scary and confusing experience, especially when it happens to a friend or family member who we care about deeply. Dissociation is a coping mechanism that occurs when an individual disconnects from their thoughts, feelings, or sensations, making it difficult for them to maintain a sense of reality. If you have a loved one who suffers from dissociation episodes, there are several things you can do to support them and help them come back to the present moment.
Before you can help someone who is dissociating, it's essential to understand the condition and its triggers. People can dissociate for various reasons, including trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and more. Common symptoms of dissociation include feeling detached from oneself, experiencing time distortion, feeling like one is outside of their body, and losing the ability to feel emotions or perceive reality.
If you notice someone starting to dissociate, there are several things you can do to help them:
1. Stay Calm: If you act anxious or panicked, it can make the person feel more disconnected. Try to remain calm and speak in a reassuring tone.
2. Engage their Senses: Ask them to touch something or focus on their breathing to help ground them in reality.
3. Talk to Them: Ask them if they need help or if they'd like you to stay with them. Encourage them to stay present in the moment.
4. Avoid Triggers: If you know the person's triggers, avoid discussing those topics.
It's important to note that you should avoid doing the following when trying to help someone who is dissociating:
1. Touching Them: Some people may not feel comfortable being touched during a dissociative episode. Always ask for permission before touching them.
2. Asking Too Many Questions: Asking too many questions or demanding answers can make the person feel overwhelmed and anxious.
3. Waking Them Up: Trying to wake someone up from a dissociative episode can be dangerous and cause more harm than good.
Q: Should I call for medical help if someone is dissociating?
A: If the person's condition is severe or if they have a history of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or mental health problems, you may need to call for medical help.
Q: How can I prevent someone from dissociating?
A: Unfortunately, dissociation can't always be prevented. However, you can help the person avoid triggers that might lead to an episode.
Q: What should I do after the person comes back to reality?
A: After the person comes back to reality, let them know that you're there for them and offer support. It's essential to respect their boundaries and avoid making them feel ashamed or judged.
Helping someone who is dissociating can be challenging, but it's an essential step in supporting their mental health. Remember to stay calm, avoid triggers, and engage their senses to help them stay present in reality. If you're unsure how to help or if the person's condition is severe, don't hesitate to seek medical help. With patience and understanding, you can help your loved one manage their dissociative symptoms and feel supported through their healing journey.
