Please read and reply to the discussion post regarding a response to a patient just diagnosed with dissociative disorder.

According to Halter, M. (2022), dissociative disorders occur after significant adverse experiences and traumas. It is an unconscious defense mechanism that individuals develop to help against overwhelming anxiety through an emotional separation.

When Kevin arrives at the inpatient unit, the first thing I will do is to provide a safe and supportive environment for him to explore his feelings and memories without feeling treated and judged. Then I will assess his safety by asking about his current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as his history of trauma. I will ask Kevin about any thoughts of harming himself or others.

Once it has been determined that Kevin is not a danger to himself or others, then I will go ahead to begin working with him to help him understand his diagnosis. I will explain to Kevin what dissociative disorders are and how they can impact someone's memory, consciousness, self-identity, and perception. I will ask about his specific symptoms and how they have affected him in performing his ADL. I will ask about the effort he has made in the past to manage the symptoms. I will help Kevin to identify his triggers and develop coping strategies to deal with the symptoms. I will also, talk to Kevin about the various treatment options and what to expect from the inpatient unit. If Kevin agrees on the treatment options, we will then work together to develop a plan that meets his needs and goals.

During Kevin's stay in the unit, I will encourage him to participate in individual and group therapy that can help him relax and feel safe like yoga, art therapy, and journaling. I will also encourage him to join a support group.When Kevin is ready to leave the inpatient unit, I will help him develop a discharge plan which will include information on how to identify triggers and coping strategies to deal with them. I will also provide information about support groups and how to get access them. I will also provide information on how to stay in touch with the unit should the need for readmission arise in the future.