Dissociated

To be 'dissociated' is to experience a disconnection or detachment from one's thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity. This can manifest as a sense of unreality, feeling as though one is observing oneself from outside their body (depersonalization), or feeling detached from one's surroundings (derealization). Dissociation can range in intensity from mild daydreaming to severe states of amnesia and identity alteration, often triggered by trauma or significant stress. It is a coping mechanism that allows the mind to distance itself from overwhelming or painful experiences.

Dissociated meaning with examples

• After the accident, Sarah felt utterly dissociated from her body, watching the scene unfold as though she were a ghost. The sirens seemed distant, and the pain, while present, felt strangely unreal. She couldn't connect the injured person with her own identity, experiencing a profound disconnect from the immediate reality around her and what had happened.
• John, plagued by childhood trauma, often found himself dissociating during stressful situations. His mind would wander, and he would feel a strange detachment from his emotions. He described the experience as watching a movie of his life rather than actively participating, unable to process the intense feelings and events of his current experience.
• The psychologist explained that the patient was dissociating, a defense mechanism to protect against overwhelming anxiety. Her therapy focused on grounding techniques to help her reconnect with her body and the present moment. This involved feeling her feet on the floor and focusing on her breath. By doing these things, she was able to feel safer.
• During the intense argument with his boss, Mark's mind felt like it had split off. He had no connection to what was being said, unable to focus on his own responses or the emotions that would usually accompany an event like this. The words washed over him, leaving him strangely detached from the confrontation, as if it weren't happening to him.