Understanding Dissociation: It’s More Common Than You Think

Have you ever driven home and suddenly realized you don’t remember the drive? Or caught yourself zoning out in a conversation and missing what someone said? That’s dissociation — and while the word itself might sound intimidating, it’s something nearly everyone experiences from time to time.

When people hear dissociation, they often think of Multiple Personality Disorder or movies like Split or Sybil. Unfortunately, Hollywood has sensationalized and distorted what dissociation actually is, leaving those who live with it feeling misunderstood or even ashamed.

Today, what was once called Multiple Personality Disorder is known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). While DID can be complex, it’s also far more common, human, and adaptable than most people realize.