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Ask A Counsellor - Answered

Asked by Alexandria on 2012-01-08

What should be familiar becomes unfamiliar?

Hi, I'm an 18 year old from Wisconsin, and something has been on my mind. A few weeks ago, I was driving home and turned onto a street close to my house that I drive on every day, and I didn't recognize it. In fact, I had no idea where I was. I was really frightening and I am really thankful that it only a moment until I realized where I was. Also, sometimes when I think about my loved ones, look at them, or even myself, it all seems like it's someone else's life. They're completely unfamiliar. Again, this only happens every once in a while and doesn't last long, but it still scares me. Do other people have these feelings or is something wrong?

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Ashley Tulloch's Answer

Answered on 2012-04-13
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Alexandria,

Thank you for your question.  It is difficult to say precisely what is happening during those episodes, but it sounds like you may be dissociating.  Dissociation occurs when an individual experiences an altered state of consciousness.  Such an experience can effect one's emotions, memory, and sensory awareness.

I encourage you to book an appointment with a therapist in your area to explore this issue further.

Regards,

Ashley Tulloch

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