Dissociation and Safety | Create Safety with Dr. Dawn Elise Snipes
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The content segments discuss the phenomenon of dissociation and its connection to past trauma. Dissociation is described as a response to distress or feeling unsafe, involving a sense of checking out, emotional numbness, and altered perception of time. It is differentiated from daydreaming or highway hypnosis by its out-of-body experience or distress response. To address dissociation, it is suggested to keep a log of triggering events and explore why those moments are overwhelming. By understanding the triggers and reasons behind dissociation, individuals can work towards creating a safer environment for themselves.
Two specific examples are provided to illustrate how dissociation manifests in clients. In one case, the client dissociates while cooking in the kitchen due to past traumatic experiences. The therapist suggests using feng shui principles, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing distress tolerance and emotional grounding skills to help the client feel safer in the kitchen. In another example, the client experiences dissociation and flashbacks triggered by exhaust fumes while driving in heavy traffic. The therapist emphasizes the importance of recognizing triggers and developing strategies to stay grounded and safe in those situations.
The therapist also discusses dissociation in children, particularly in classroom settings. They highlight that children who come from households with domestic violence or verbal abuse may dissociate in response to intimidating or threatening situations. It is emphasized that dissociation should be reframed as a protective mechanism rather than misbehavior or intentional inattention.
Overall, the content emphasizes the importance of recognizing dissociation, understanding its triggers, and implementing strategies to create a sense of safety and grounding.
The content segments discuss the phenomenon of dissociation and its connection to past trauma. Disso