Dissociative disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by a disruption in the usually integrated functions of conscious awareness, memory, identity, or perception of the environment. Symptoms of dissociative disorders can include depersonalization (feeling detached from one’s body or thoughts), derealization (feeling that the environment is not real), amnesia (inability to remember past experiences), and identity confusion (losing a sense of identity). Treatment for dissociative disorders typically includes psychotherapy and medications.
Who has Dissociative disorders
People who experience dissociative disorders typically have difficulty keeping memories, thoughts, and feelings about themselves and their experiences separate. These disorders can be caused by extreme trauma, stress, or a combination of both. People of all ages can experience dissociative disorders, though they are more common in women than men.
How to naturally treat Dissociative disorders
- Meditate or practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is a practice that helps you to stay present in the moment, instead of ruminating on the past or future. It can help to reduce anxiety and stress, which are often associated with dissociative disorders.
- Get regular exercise: Regular physical activity can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can help to manage symptoms of dissociative disorders.
- Talk therapy: Talking with a mental health professional about your feelings and thoughts can help to reduce symptoms of dissociative disorders.
- Avoid alcohol and other drugs: Substance abuse can make symptoms of dissociative disorders worse.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can help to manage symptoms of dissociative disorders.
- Spend time with friends and family: Spending time with people you trust can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can help to manage symptoms of dissociative disorders.
- Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can help to manage symptoms of dissociative disorders.
Super powers of Dissociative disorders
The most common superpower associated with Dissociative disorders is the ability to separate one’s mind from the physical body. This allows the person to enter a trance state and experience altered states of consciousness. People with Dissociative disorders may also be able to access alternate realities, allowing them to gain knowledge or insight into other worlds. They may also have the ability to project their thoughts or feelings into the minds of others, or to manifest physical objects out of thin air.
Natural Supplements for Dissociative disorders
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that are believed to reduce inflammation and improve brain health. They can be found in fish oil, krill oil, and flaxseed oil supplements.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for many processes in the body, including nerve and muscle function. It is believed to reduce anxiety and stress levels, which can be beneficial in managing dissociative disorders.
- L-Glutamine: L-glutamine is an amino acid that is essential for healthy brain function. It is believed to help reduce symptoms of dissociative disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
- Vitamin B Complex: Vitamin B complex is made up of several different B vitamins that are essential for healthy neurological function. It is believed to reduce symptoms of dissociative disorders, such as confusion and memory problems.
- 5-HTP: 5-HTP is an amino acid that helps the body produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. It is believed to reduce symptoms of dissociative disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Nutrition for Dissociative disorders
Nutrition can play an important role in the treatment of dissociative disorders. Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from all the food groups can help provide the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals needed to support overall health and wellness. Eating regular meals, avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and artificial sweeteners, and limiting the intake of processed and refined foods may help to reduce symptoms of dissociation. Additionally, increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, zinc, and Vitamin B6 may also be beneficial. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products may help to promote physical and mental health.
How does Exercise help with Dissociative disorders?
Exercise can be an effective tool for managing symptoms of dissociative disorders. Regular physical activity has been found to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, which can be associated with dissociative disorders. Exercise can also help to increase self-esteem and feelings of wellbeing, and provide an outlet for pent-up emotions. Furthermore, participating in physical activities that require focus and concentration can help to increase the sense of presence and connectedness with one’s body, which can be beneficial for those with dissociative disorders.
What resources are most helpful for dealing with Dissociative disorders?
- The Australian Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health – This organisation provides support and information for people living with Dissociative Disorders. They have a range of resources, including fact sheets and online forums.
- ReachOut – This organisation provides online support and resources for people living with Dissociative Disorders. They have a range of online tools and articles to help people manage their conditions.
- SANE Australia – This organisation provides support, information and resources for people living with mental health conditions. They have a range of resources and services, including online forums and a helpline.
- Mind Australia – This organisation provides support and resources for people living with mental health conditions. They have a range of online tools and articles to help people manage their conditions.
- Beyond Blue – This organisation provides support and resources for people living with mental health conditions. They have a range of online tools and articles to help people manage their conditions.
- Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and/or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are considered to be the most effective forms of therapy for treating dissociative disorders.
- Support Groups: Peer support groups can provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to talk about their experiences with dissociative disorders.
- Medication: Certain medications such as antidepressants can help to reduce symptoms of dissociation, such as depression and anxiety.
- Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness-based activities such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Self-Care: Taking time for yourself to do things that you enjoy can help to reduce symptoms of dissociation.
- Online Support: There are many online resources available to provide support and education about dissociative disorders.
What advice would you give to someone who has recently been diagnosed with Dissociative disorders?
- Make sure to find a reputable mental health professional who specializes in dissociative disorders. Get the support and guidance that you need to understand what you are dealing with and how to manage the symptoms of your condition.
- Educate yourself about dissociative disorders and seek out resources that can help you better understand and manage them.
- Reach out for support from family and friends, and consider joining a support group for people with dissociative disorders.
- Make sure to take care of yourself and incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine. This includes getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough rest.
- Find healthy ways to cope with the symptoms of your condition such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and other forms of stress-management.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you are feeling overwhelmed or if you need extra support.