Supporting Someone with Dissociation: Practical Steps and Strategies

The experience of dissociation can be complex and challenging, making it difficult to understand what a person with dissociation is going through. While it is essential to educate yourself about this condition, there are practical steps you can take to support your loved one or a friend experiencing dissociation. This guide provides insights into how to assist someone with dissociative symptoms and highlights some effective strategies.

Learning About Dissociation

The first step in supporting someone with dissociation is to educate yourself about the condition. Diverse resources can help you understand it better, such as reputable websites, books, and academic articles. Although a deep understanding is valuable, it is not necessary to become an expert. Having a general awareness of dissociation and its effects on individuals can significantly help you provide better support.

Building Empathy and Understanding

One of the most valuable ways to support a person experiencing dissociation is by building empathy and understanding. Engage in open and honest communication with the individual to learn about their experience and feelings. Showing empathy and validating their experience can go a long way in making them feel supported and understood. If the person is comfortable, you can discuss techniques that may help bring them back from dissociation.

Supporting Routine and Accountability

Establishing a routine can be particularly helpful for someone who experiences dissociation. Routines can provide structure, which can assist in maintaining focus and stability. My aunt, who has worked with the family for seven years, has used and continues to use strategies that have proven effective. These include setting frequent alarms, reminding them to eat, and assisting them in completing tasks. For our family, the more rigid the routine, the more likely we were to have trouble staying on track. As a result, we have focused on consolidating and adapting our routine to our needs.

Additionally, accountability is crucial in supporting someone with dissociation. Encouraging the individual to set and achieve goals can help them stay centered and motivated. My aunt encouraged the use of journals to help us communicate both within and outside of our family. Journals can serve as a tool for sharing thoughts and experiences, enhancing communication and connection. While some members of our family did not or could not write, those who did kept their journals hidden. However, we reviewed these journals with professionals or trusted loved ones when necessary, ensuring that we could benefit from them.

The Power of Routine in Co-existing with Dissociation

Our family's experience with dissociation highlights the importance of a structured routine. Routine can be particularly challenging for individuals with dissociative symptoms, as their experiences may disrupt daily plans. Our routine has evolved over time, adapting to our needs and circumstances. While some members of our family may have dissociated and struggled with staying on track, our structured routine has helped us maintain a sense of normalcy and stability.

Remember that every person with dissociative identity disorder (DID) is unique. It is important to recognize and celebrate the small successes and progress made by individuals with dissociation. In our journey, we have discovered that acknowledging and appreciating the small achievements can be incredibly valuable.

Validation and Self-Support

It is important to be both supportive of the individual and self-supportive during times when someone you care about is experiencing dissociation. It can be easy to blame yourself for their symptoms, but it is crucial to also take care of your own emotional well-being. Understanding that certain actions or triggers may cause dissociation can help you better support the person without blaming yourself. However, it is also important to recognize that unless you know the specific triggers, it can be challenging to identify their causes. In such cases, maintaining a supportive environment is paramount.

Conclusion

Supporting someone with dissociation requires a combination of education, empathy, and practical strategies. By taking these steps, you can help make their life more manageable and fulfilling. Remember that every individual's experience with dissociation is unique, and it is essential to validate their feelings and help them find the support they need. If you have any concerns or need further assistance, consulting professionals can provide additional guidance and resources.

Education and meaningful support can be transformative for individuals experiencing dissociation. By embracing this journey, you can play a crucial role in helping your loved one or friend navigate the complex world of dissociation.