Overview
Dissociation is a term used in both Chemistry and Psychology to describe the act of separation, disconnection or detachment. In Chemistry, dissociation is the process of splitting a molecule of a chemical element or compound into smaller molecules, atoms or ions, while in Psychology, the term is known as a mental process in which a person tends to disconnect from their own thoughts, feelings or sense of identity.
People who are most likely to experience dissociation are the ones that have been through traumatic events such as assault of any kind or losing someone they loved. Usually, this is resolved without professional treatment, but in some cases, dissociation can lead to dissociative disorders, such as dissociative amnesia, dissociative fugue, dissociation identity disorder or depersonalization. If this applies, professional assistance is required, including a medical diagnosis and treatment.