Dissociative Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex form of PTSD where individuals experience episodes of dissociation—feeling disconnected from themselves, their surroundings, or reality. This condition can profoundly impact daily life, relationships, and emotional well-being.
At The Raleigh House, we offer compassionate, evidence-based dissociative PTSD treatment designed to help clients process trauma, manage dissociation, and reclaim a sense of self.
To learn more about dissociative PTSD treatment options, contact our admissions team or continue reading.
What is Dissociative PTSD?
Dissociative PTSD is a subtype of post-traumatic stress disorder where trauma-related stress causes dissociation—a mental disconnect from thoughts, memories, feelings, actions, or sense of identity.
Dissociation acts as a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to distance themselves from distressing memories or emotions.
This form of PTSD often develops after severe or repeated trauma, such as childhood abuse, combat exposure, or sexual assault.
Individuals with dissociative PTSD may feel as though they are observing their lives from outside their bodies or that the world around them is unreal.
Dissociative PTSD Symptoms
Common symptoms of this mental health condition include:
- Depersonalization: Feeling detached from one’s body or mind, as though observing oneself from outside.
- Derealization: Perceiving the external world as unreal, dreamlike, or distorted.
- Memory gaps: Inability to recall important aspects of the traumatic event.
- Emotional numbness: A lack of emotional response to significant events.
- Flashbacks and intrusive memories: Re-experiencing the traumatic event as if it’s happening in the present.
- Avoidance behaviors: Steering clear of reminders of the trauma.
- Anxiety and hypervigilance: Feeling constantly on edge or easily startled.
How Dissociative PTSD Affects Daily Life
The dissociation associated with PTSD can disrupt daily functioning, making it difficult to maintain relationships, stay focused at work, or engage in everyday activities.
Individuals may feel disconnected from their surroundings or loved ones, leading to isolation and emotional distress.
What Causes Dissociative PTSD?
Understanding the causes of PTSD disassociation is crucial for effective treatment. This condition is typically rooted in the brain’s attempt to protect itself from overwhelming trauma.
The Impact of Trauma on Brain Function
Trauma affects brain regions responsible for processing fear, memory, and emotions.
In dissociative PTSD, the brain may disconnect from traumatic memories to protect the individual from emotional pain.
This protective mechanism, while initially helpful, can become disruptive if dissociation continues after the trauma has passed.
Why Some People Experience Dissociation with PTSD
Not everyone with PTSD experiences dissociation. Certain factors increase the likelihood, including:
- Severity and duration of trauma: Prolonged trauma, such as ongoing abuse, heightens the risk.
- Age at the time of trauma: Early childhood trauma is a significant risk factor.
- Lack of emotional support: Isolation can exacerbate dissociative symptoms.
How Unprocessed Trauma Leads to PTSD Symptoms
When trauma remains unprocessed, the mind may continue using dissociation as a defense mechanism. This prevents individuals from fully processing traumatic memories, leading to persistent PTSD symptoms that disrupt daily life and relationships.
Diagnosing Dissociative PTSD
An accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. Dissociative PTSD requires a comprehensive evaluation by mental health professionals.
The diagnostic process includes:
- Clinical Interviews: In-depth discussions about trauma history, symptom patterns, and dissociative experiences.
- Assessment Tools: Standardized questionnaires help evaluate the severity of dissociative symptoms and PTSD.
- Differential Diagnosis: Professionals must distinguish dissociative PTSD from other conditions, such as dissociative identity disorder, anxiety, or depression.
Proper diagnosis ensures that treatment targets both PTSD symptoms and dissociative episodes, paving the way for meaningful recovery.
Building a Path to Healing from Dissociative PTSD
Healing from trauma-related dissociation requires addressing both the trauma and the dissociative symptoms.
At The Raleigh House, we focus on reconnecting individuals with the present moment and helping them process their trauma safely.
Addressing the Connection Between Dissociation and Addiction
Many individuals with dissociative PTSD turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism. Substance use provides temporary relief but can lead to substance use disorder, creating a cycle that worsens both conditions.
Our integrated treatment programs address both dissociation and addiction, providing comprehensive care that supports long-term recovery.
Therapy’s Role in Reconnecting with the Present
Therapy plays a central role in helping individuals overcome dissociation and regain control. Key therapeutic approaches include:
- Grounding techniques: These exercises help individuals reconnect with their bodies and surroundings.
- Trauma-focused therapies: Address traumatic memories in a safe, controlled environment.
- Mindfulness practices: Build awareness and reduce the frequency of dissociative episodes.
The Raleigh House Approach to Dissociative PTSD Treatment
Our approach combines specialized services, evidence-based therapies, holistic treatments, and personalized care plans to support every aspect of recovery.
Evidence-Based Therapy for Trauma Recovery
We utilize proven therapeutic methods, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps clients reframe negative thought patterns.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Aids in processing traumatic memories without re-traumatization.
- Exposure Therapy: Gradually reduces trauma-related anxiety through safe reintroduction to triggers.
Holistic Approaches to Healing from PTSD
Holistic therapies support emotional balance and overall well-being, including:
- Yoga and Meditation: Encourage relaxation and stress management.
- Equine-Assisted Therapy: Builds confidence and emotional resilience.
- Rock Climbing Therapy: Promotes physical strength, confidence, and emotional resilience by helping clients overcome challenges and build trust in themselves through guided climbing activities.
Personalized Treatment Plans for Long-Term Recovery
Our experienced team recognizes that every individual’s journey with dissociative PTSD is unique.
At The Raleigh House, we develop customized treatment plans tailored to each client’s experiences, symptoms, and recovery goals. This approach ensures lasting stability and well-being.
Visit The Raleigh House for Personalized PTSD Treatment in Colorado
At The Raleigh House, we provide specialized dissociative PTSD treatment at two welcoming Colorado locations, each offering unique environments designed to support healing and recovery:
- The Ranch at The Raleigh House: Nestled in the peaceful Colorado countryside, The Ranch offers a serene space for those seeking to recover from trauma, mental health conditions, and addiction. With nature-inspired therapies and a nurturing community, it’s an ideal place to find peace, reconnect with oneself, and heal.
- The Center for Integrative Behavioral Health: Located in the Denver Tech Center, our newest facility delivers the same level of clinical excellence and unique healing experiences for trauma, mental health, and addiction. This center also offers physical accessibility support in a beautiful and nurturing environment, making it an excellent option for those seeking flexible, outpatient care close to home.
You don’t have to navigate dissociative PTSD treatment alone. Contact us today to begin your journey toward healing and lasting recovery.