What are dissociative disorders?

What are dissociative disorders?

The word “dissociation” means to be disconnected from others, from the world around you, or from yourself.

The term “dissociative disorders” describes a persistent mental state that is marked by feelings of being detached from reality, being outside of one’s own body, or experiencing memory loss (amnesia).

About 2% of the U.S. population experiences true dissociative disorders (not just momentary feelings of dissociation). All age groups, racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds are affected. Women are more likely than men to be diagnosed.