At HillsidesCares, we are committed to aiding young people on their mental well-being journey. Our dissociative disorder treatment program is a testament to that commitment. Dissociative disorders often present a complex challenge due to their inherent signs, such as altered consciousness, memory loss, and identity changes.
Our program is designed with a deep understanding of these signs, providing the necessary support, guidance, and treatment methodologies to help clients navigate their way to recovery. The path to mental health may not be easy, but you are never alone with us. Call us today at 323.641.4842 to learn more about the signs of dissociative disorder or to get help for your child.
What Is a Dissociative Disorder?
A dissociative disorder is a mental health condition that primarily impacts the way a person’s identity, memories, and consciousness function. Unlike normal states of distraction, dissociative disorders involve disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, self-identity, or perception—components integral to an individual’s sense of self.
These conditions often stem from trauma, resulting in the individual compartmentalizing or disconnecting these components to cope. The severity of symptoms can range from mild memory lapses to more complex manifestations, such as assuming alternate identities. It’s important to understand that these are not voluntary actions but rather involuntary responses to overwhelming stress or trauma.
Common Signs of a Dissociative Disorder
Individuals and their loved ones should be aware of several signs of dissociative disorders. While the manifestation of these signs can vary significantly from person to person, some common symptoms generally indicate a dissociative disorder. These signs may include:
- Disruptions in memory – Individuals may experience memory gaps, forgetfulness, or cannot recall personal information or events.
- A sense of being detached from yourself – This might feel like the individual observes their actions, thoughts, and feelings from an outside perspective.
- Identity confusion – Sudden and dramatic shifts in thoughts, feelings, and behavior may occur, which can feel as if they are two or more different people.
- Depersonalization – Involves feeling detached from their body or as though they’re observing their behavior.
- Derealization – Experiences of unreality concerning the outside world, such as feeling like the world is not real or distorting in size or shape, may occur.
These signs may be disconcerting, but it’s crucial to remember that help is available, and recovery is attainable with appropriate treatment and support.
Understanding Treatment for a Dissociative Disorder
The treatment for dissociative disorder typically involves a combination of therapeutic modalities. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is the cornerstone of treatment. It can help clients develop healthier, more adaptive ways to understand and cope with their disorder.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly beneficial in helping individuals to change harmful thinking and behavior patterns. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is often utilized to help process and make sense of traumatic memories. Medication may sometimes be recommended to manage any co-occurring conditions such as depression or anxiety. Individuals with dissociative disorders can lead fulfilling, well-adjusted lives with the right treatment plan.
Get Help for Your Child at HillsidesCares
If you or your child are experiencing signs of dissociative disorder, know we are here to help. At HillsidesCares, our team offers compassionate care and treatment for young people with dissociative disorders. We understand the importance of addressing the underlying issues rather than simply treating the symptoms.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you or someone close to you have questions about dissociative disorders. Call us at 323.641.4842 to speak with a HillsidesCares representative and learn more about our services or get help for your child.