Dissociative Disorders
Understanding Symptoms and Finding Local Support
What are Dissociative Disorders?
Dissociative disorders are mental health conditions that involve disruptions or breakdowns in memory, consciousness, identity, or perception. People may feel detached from themselves or their surroundings, experience memory gaps, or develop multiple distinct identities.
These disorders are often linked to overwhelming stress or trauma, particularly during childhood.
Types of Dissociative Disorders
- Dissociative Amnesia – Memory loss that’s more severe than normal forgetfulness, often related to trauma or stress
- Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder – Persistent or recurring feelings of being detached from one’s body (depersonalization) or surroundings (derealization)
- Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) – Formerly called multiple personality disorder, involving two or more distinct identities or personality states
Common Symptoms
Symptoms vary but may include:
- Memory gaps for significant personal information
- Feeling disconnected from thoughts, feelings, or body
- A sense of people or surroundings being unreal
- Confusion about identity
- Sudden shifts in mood or behavior
- Difficulty functioning in daily life
PTSD may include dissociative symptoms. Some symptoms may be confused with schizophrenia.
Causes and Risk Factors
Dissociative disorders are strongly associated with:
- Severe or repeated trauma, particularly in early childhood
- Neglect or abuse
- Natural disasters or combat experiences
- Extreme stress
How Dissociative Disorders Are Diagnosed
Diagnosis is made by a licensed mental health professional through:
- Detailed clinical interviews
- Medical history review to rule out other causes
- Assessment of symptoms and functional impact
Treatment and Management Options
Mental Wellness Center does not provide diagnosis or treatment for dissociative disorders.
Local mental health providers may recommend:
- Psychotherapy
- Trauma-focused therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Medication
- Prescribed for co-occurring symptoms like depression or anxiety
- Skills training
- For grounding, emotional regulation, and stress management
- Support groups
- Peer support for individuals with trauma-related conditions
Dissociative Disorder
Resources in Santa Barbara
We connect individuals and families to:
- Therapists specializing in trauma and dissociation
- Community-based mental health programs
- Peer and family support groups
- Crisis intervention services
Explore our mental health services directory to find local mental health specialists.
How Mental Wellness Center Can Help
- Offer referrals to local treatment providers and support services
- Facilitate community programs to build resilience and reduce stigma
Learn more about Mental Wellness Center’s mission to promote mental health for all.
We’re here for you.
Contact us to learn more or make an appointment. We may refer you to an educational group, a support group or one of our external partners.
To learn more about a specific mental health disorder,
go to: www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are dissociative disorders always caused by trauma?
While trauma—especially in early childhood—is a common factor, not all cases are trauma-related.
Q: Can dissociative disorders be cured?
With appropriate treatment, many people experience significant improvement in symptoms and functioning.
Q: Is dissociation the same as daydreaming?
No. Daydreaming is a common and harmless experience, while dissociation involves more severe disconnection that interferes with daily life.
Q: How are dissociative disorders treated?
Treatment often includes psychotherapy, skills training, and support for co-occurring conditions.
Q: Does Mental Wellness Center treat dissociative disorders?
No. We provide education and connect individuals with local providers and support resources.
Q: Where can I find help in Santa Barbara?
Visit our Find Help directory, Support Groups page, or contact us for referrals.
“You are not defined by your challenges, you’re defined by your courage to face them.”
Ramona Winner
MWC Family Advocate of 12 years