Dissociation and Trauma
When we think about trauma, we often imagine big emotional reactions such as panic, flashbacks, nightmares, or intense fear. But sometimes, the body and mind respond in a quieter, less obvious way: dissociation. Dissociation is a common trauma response, yet many people don’t realize they’re experiencing it.
As a trauma therapist, I see clients who describe feeling “numb,” “checked out,” or like they’re “watching life from the outside.” These are often signs of dissociation, and while it can feel confusing or even scary, it’s important to know that this response is the brain’s way of trying to keep you safe.
What Is Dissociation?
Dissociation happens when your mind disconnects from the present moment. For some, this might look like:
Feeling detached from your body (like you’re floating or observing yourself from the outside, unable to feel body sensations).
Losing track of time or “zoning out” for long periods.
Having gaps in memory.
Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected from your surroundings.
In the context of trauma, dissociation can be one of the brain’s survival mechanisms. When a situation feels overwhelming and escape isn’t possible, the nervous system sometimes shuts down or detaches to protect you from the full intensity of the experience.
Why Does Dissociation Happen After Trauma?
According to trauma research, dissociation is part of the freeze or shutdown response in the nervous system. While fight and flight help us take action against danger, dissociation helps us endure situations that feel inescapable.
This survival response is adaptive in the moment, but when dissociation continues long after the trauma is over, it can interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
Signs You Might Be Experiencing Dissociation
It’s not always easy to spot dissociation, especially because many people describe it as simply feeling “off.” Some signs include:
Regularly spacing out or losing chunks of time.
Feeling like the world around you isn’t real (sometimes called derealization).
Feeling like you’re not real or not fully here (sometimes called depersonalization).
Struggling to connect emotionally with others.
Feeling numb.
Frequent daydreaming.
Difficulty feeling sensations in your body.
If you notice these experiences happening often, especially after reminders of past trauma, it may be time to reach out for professional support.
Healing from Dissociation
Trauma therapy approaches such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), somatic therapy, and grounding techniques can help reconnect you to your body and the present moment in safe, manageable ways.
Therapy provides a space to explore why dissociation is showing up, learn tools to manage it, and gently process the trauma underneath. Over time, clients often find they feel more present, connected, and empowered in their daily lives.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
If you experience dissociation, know that it means your brain and body have been doing their best to protect you. With the right support, healing is possible.
At Awakening Serenity Counseling in Aurora, CO, I specialize in trauma therapy, EMDR, and helping clients reconnect to themselves after dissociation and other trauma responses. Together, we can work towards long-term healing.
Ready to take the next step? Contact me here to schedule a consultation.
