After three months, they collected follow-up reports.

They found that patients who experienced derealization were more likely to have higher levels of various mental health conditions.

When this system is disrupted, it can lead to dissociation.

Man with troubled expression staring out the window

Sarah Mason / Getty

It is rarely a standalone issue.

“[Dissociation] is adefense mechanismthat can kick-in in the context of experiencing particularly severe trauma.

The protective function is so you can survive an incredibly difficult experience.

It is rarely a standalone issue, she says.

You may also have gaps in your memory, or forget things more than usual.

Theyre often a reaction to traumatic events.

For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

These may includeantidepressants,anti-anxiety medications, and sleep aids.

This can happen in different ways through therapy.

These include getting enoughsleep, maintaining ahealthy dietand a regularexerciseroutine, and doing your best to identifytriggers.

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However, it’ll have the opposite effect in recovery.

If you find yourself struggling or dissociating after a traumatic event, reach out to someone for support.

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