Dissociation is a psychological process where you feel detached from your thoughts, body, emotions, or surroundings. It’s often a survival response to overwhelming stress or trauma, and can range from brief moments of “spacing out” to feeling as though you’re not real.
“Sometimes I’d go completely numb. It was like I was watching my life from outside myself, unable to connect or come back.”
Dissociation can look very different from person to person. Some experience depersonalisation (feeling detached from the self) or derealisation (feeling the world isn’t real). Others describe memory gaps, emotional numbness, identity confusion, or feeling like different parts of them take over at different times.
People often misattribute dissociation to tiredness, depression, or “just zoning out.” It frequently develops after trauma, especially in childhood, but can also result from ongoing stress, panic, or burnout. In some cases, dissociation is part of a dissociative disorder or complex PTSD. Therapy helps individuals make sense of dissociation, reduce fear, and reconnect with themselves safely.
“Supporting someone with dissociation is about helping them come back to themselves gently—without shame, fear, or pressure to rush.”
At Bloomfield Health, we offer specialist, trauma-informed care for adults experiencing dissociation. Our clinicians conduct a gentle, thorough assessment and help you understand your experiences without fear or judgement. We use evidence-based therapies such as trauma-focused CBT. We prioritise stability, emotional regulation, and long-term recovery—always at your pace.
It’s often a response to trauma, especially when escape wasn’t possible. Chronic stress, panic, or neglect can also trigger it.
Not inherently—but it can affect safety, decision-making, or relationships. With support, it becomes more manageable and less distressing.
No. Dissociation is a disconnect within your consciousness, but you usually retain insight. It’s not a break from reality.
Yes. Therapy helps reduce dissociation, improve emotional regulation, and build a stronger sense of self.
Not at first. We focus on safety and stabilisation before any trauma processing, if that’s needed.
We work with compassion, curiosity, and patience—no one is too complex for care.
Yes. Many people learn to manage symptoms, reconnect with themselves, and live full, meaningful lives.
With the right support, many people experience lasting improvement—and begin to feel more grounded, connected, and whole.
We are registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC),
the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
