Experiencing dissociative disorders can be a complex and distressing experience. One of the common challenges faced by individuals with dissociative disorders is the feeling of "faking it." This feeling can arise due to several factors:
Dissociation itself: Dissociation involves a disconnection between different aspects of consciousness, memory, identity, and perception. During dissociative episodes, individuals may feel detached from their emotions, thoughts, body, or surroundings. This detachment can lead them to question the authenticity of their experiences, as if they are merely "pretending" or "faking" their symptoms.
Lack of awareness: Dissociation often involves a lack of awareness or memory gaps for certain periods or events. This memory disruption can lead to confusion and doubt about what has actually happened. As a result, individuals may question the validity of their experiences and wonder if they are making things up.
Stigma and self-judgment: Mental health conditions, including dissociative disorders, have historically carried stigma and misconceptions. Due to this, individuals may internalize negative beliefs about their condition, leading them to doubt its legitimacy or believe they are exaggerating their symptoms.
Internal conflicts: Dissociative disorders can arise as a coping mechanism in response to trauma or distressing experiences. The conflict between wanting to protect oneself from painful memories and the desire to understand one's own experiences can lead to feelings of confusion and self-doubt.
Working out what is real can be a challenging process for individuals with dissociative disorders. Here are some strategies to navigate this:
Seek professional help: If you suspect you have a dissociative disorder or struggle with doubts about your experiences, it is essential to consult with a mental health professional. They can conduct a thorough assessment and provide a diagnosis based on your symptoms and experiences.
Education and self-awareness: Learning about dissociative disorders and their various symptoms can help you gain insights into your experiences. By becoming more aware of your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, you may start recognizing patterns of dissociation and its triggers.
Journaling: Keeping a journal can help you track your feelings, thoughts, and any dissociative episodes. This can provide valuable information to share with your therapist and help you identify patterns in your experiences.
Therapy and grounding techniques: Psychotherapy, particularly specialized therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), can help you work through trauma and manage dissociation. Grounding techniques can also be beneficial during dissociative episodes, helping you stay connected to the present moment.
Support network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or support groups. Sharing experiences with others who understand dissociative disorders can help reduce feelings of isolation and self-doubt.
Be patient and compassionate with yourself: Healing from dissociative disorders takes time and effort. Practice self-compassion and avoid self-criticism as you work through your experiences and seek help.
Remember, seeking professional support is crucial when dealing with dissociative disorders or any mental health concerns. They can provide personalized guidance and support based on your specific situation.