Dissociative disorders most often result from an individual attempting to cope with what?

Dissociative disorders are primarily a coping mechanism that manifests when an individual faces overwhelming abuse or trauma. Such experiences may include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, which are often so intense that the individual cannot process them in a normal, integrated way. As a result, they may dissociate, leading to a disconnection between their thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory. This response serves as a protective mechanism, allowing them to distance themselves from the painful reality and experiences they are unable to confront.

While overwhelming stress from work, significant life changes, and chronic illness can certainly impact mental well-being and provoke stress responses, they do not typically lead to dissociative disorders in the same manner as trauma or extreme abuse does. The severity and emotional impact of such trauma are vital reasons why they are closely linked to the development of dissociative disorders.