Dissociation and Psychoactive Substances

TL;DR: Dissociation and psychoactive substances often intersect in complex ways. Some people use substances to cope with dissociation, while others experience dissociation as a direct effect of drug or alcohol use. This blog explores how these two experiences relate, the risks involved, and how to stay grounded when navigating both.

Dissociation is a psychological experience where a person feels disconnected from their thoughts, emotions, body, or surroundings. It can be a response to trauma, stress, or anxiety—and for some, it becomes a long-term coping mechanism. Meanwhile, psychoactive substances like cannabis, alcohol, stimulants, or psychedelics can alter perception, emotion, and cognition in ways that either mimic or intensify dissociation.

So, how do these two experiences connect? And what should someone be aware of if they experience dissociation and also use substances?

How Substances Can Trigger Dissociation

Certain psychoactive substances can directly lead to dissociative states, even in people without a history of trauma. These episodes may be brief or prolonged, depending on the person and the substance used.

Common experiences include:

• Feeling like you’re watching yourself from outside your body (depersonalisation)
• Sensing the world as unreal or dreamlike (derealisation)
• Memory gaps or confusion
• Emotional numbness or loss of time

Substances that may cause dissociative symptoms include:

• Cannabis: Especially in high doses or for those prone to anxiety or trauma, cannabis can cause disconnection, paranoia, or altered time perception.
• Alcohol: While initially relaxing, alcohol can lead to memory blackouts or emotional disconnection.
• Stimulants (like cocaine or amphetamines): These can intensify anxiety and lead to hyper-awareness followed by emotional shut-down.
• Psychedelics (such as LSD or psilocybin): These can alter the sense of self and reality—sometimes in distressing ways.
• Dissociative anaesthetics (like ketamine or PCP): These drugs directly produce dissociative effects, sometimes even sought out for this reason.

When Substances Are Used to Cope with Dissociation

For some, dissociation is a chronic or recurring issue—particularly among those with a history of trauma or complex mental health conditions. In these cases, psychoactive substances may be used as a form of self-medication to:

• Escape uncomfortable emotions
• Numb overwhelming memories
• Feel more present or “normal” temporarily
• Quiet intrusive thoughts

However, this cycle can become harmful. Substances may offer short-term relief but often lead to increased dissociation over time, emotional instability, and reduced ability to process underlying trauma.

The Risks of Mixing Dissociation and Substances

Combining dissociation and psychoactive substances can be risky, especially when it:

• Masks underlying issues: Substance use may delay seeking appropriate help for trauma or mental health.
• Increases vulnerability: Dissociation can impair judgment, making it harder to make safe decisions while under the influence.
• Intensifies symptoms: Some drugs can worsen anxiety, paranoia, or confusion—triggering or deepening dissociation.
• Leads to dependency: Using substances as a regular escape from dissociation can build unhealthy habits and potential addiction.

How to Stay Grounded If You Experience Both

If you use substances and experience dissociation—whether occasionally or often—here are some grounding tips and safety reminders:

1.Know Your Triggers Keep a journal to identify patterns: What substances increase dissociation for you? What situations or emotions lead you to use them?

2.Use Grounding Tools If you feel yourself detaching, try:

• Cold water on your hands or face
• Holding a textured object
• Describing your surroundings aloud
• The 5-4-3-2-1 technique (see, touch, hear, smell, taste)

3.Avoid Mixing Substances with Vulnerability Try not to use substances when you’re feeling emotionally unstable, lonely, or anxious. This increases the likelihood of dissociation or difficult experiences.

4.Talk to a Professional A therapist can help you explore both your relationship with dissociation and substance use in a safe, non-judgmental space.

5.Seek Safer Alternatives If you’re using substances to feel relaxed or disconnected from pain, consider alternatives that provide similar effects more safely—like breathing exercises, creative expression, or trauma-informed bodywork.

Conclusion

The connection between dissociation and psychoactive substances is complex and deeply personal. For some, substances trigger dissociation unexpectedly. For others, they become a way to manage it. Either way, recognising this connection is a crucial step toward greater self-awareness and healing. Whether you're navigating trauma, experimenting with substances, or just curious about how the mind works under pressure—compassion, curiosity, and support go a long way.

🌱 Want to support our work on dissociation? Become a test user for our upcoming mental health app by visiting our Linktree. 📲 For grounding tips, insights, and daily support—follow us on Instagram @groundmeapp. You're not alone in this journey.