Dissociation occurs when the mind separates certain thoughts, emotions, or sensations as a way to manage overwhelming experiences. It’s often a response to trauma, such as abuse, accidents, or prolonged stress. While it can provide temporary relief, chronic dissociation may interfere with daily functioning and relationships.

You can learn a lot by asking your teen about their life, and then listening without jumping immediately to advice giving.

When you withhold judgment and resist the temptation to give advice, you gain valuable information about your teen’s friends, academics, and mental health. You also give them an opportunity to feel closer to you.

“Man up!” Men often tell me that it has become difficult to even recognize any feelings besides anger and basic happiness; these anecdotal observations are backed by psychological research.

Many men feel pressure to suppress or ignore other important feelings such as fear, sadness, grief, confusion, warmth, and vulnerability.