Dissociation

Dissociation is an outcome for many people who have experienced lengthy and ongoing trauma. This may be as a result of childhood attachment problems, such as neglect, or more serious forms of childhood abuse. In adults, war, torture and imprisonment can lead to dissociative conditions. Memory for events is often affected, as well as a feeling of not being in touch with reality, or even your own body. Time can be lost and it can feel like you aren't fully in control of your mind or behaviour. A severe form of this is Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), formally known as Multiple Personality Disorder. This can be extremely disabling for some people, and confusing for family and professionals alike.  Achieving a diagnosis on the NHS can be problematic due to the number of clinicians who are not experienced in the assessment and treatment of the condition. Screening and full assessment is available via Cheshire Psychology, as well as ongoing therapy where required. Therapy is undertaken using the Structural Dissociation model, whereby the person is helped to achieve stability in their emotional regulation and environment prior to any exploration of their trauma. An excellent booklet on dissociation is available from MIND at www.mind.org.uk