Dissociative Trance Disorder (DTD)
Dissociative Trance Disorder (DTD) is a rare dissociative condition characterized by a temporary loss of awareness of one’s surroundings, identity, or sense of self. During a trance episode, a person may appear unresponsive, unaware of their environment, or act in ways that seem outside their normal personality. These trance states can last from minutes to hours and may involve movements, speech, or behaviors that the person does not later recall.
DTD differs from culturally accepted trance or possession experiences—such as religious rituals or meditation—because the episodes cause distress, disrupt daily life, or occur involuntarily. Individuals may experience amnesia following a trance, confusion about what occurred, and emotional distress once they “return” to normal awareness. The disorder often emerges in response to trauma, stress, or unresolved psychological conflict.
While Dissociative Trance Disorder is not formally listed as a distinct diagnosis in the DSM-5, it falls under the category of “Other Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD)”. This category includes conditions where dissociative symptoms do not fully meet the criteria for specific disorders like Dissociative Identity Disorder or Dissociative Amnesia but still cause significant impairment.
According to DSM-5 guidelines, dissociative trance symptoms may include:
Marked narrowing of awareness of immediate surroundings.
Involuntary movements, speech, or behaviors perceived as being controlled by an external force.
Temporary alteration in consciousness or identity.
Significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Dissociative Trance Disorder can vary in duration and intensity but commonly include:
Sudden trance-like states where awareness or responsiveness is severely reduced.
Amnesia for events or actions that occur during the trance episode.
Automatic movements or speech that feel outside one’s control.
A sense of being possessed or controlled by an external presence or force.
Emotional numbness or detachment following a trance episode.
Physical unresponsiveness to external stimuli during the trance.
Post-episode confusion or exhaustion once normal awareness returns.
An example might be someone suddenly entering a trance during a stressful event, appearing to speak in a different tone or act unlike themselves, with no recollection afterward. Unlike cultural or spiritual trances, these experiences occur unexpectedly and cause significant distress or impairment.
Treatment
Treatment for Dissociative Trance Disorder focuses on restoring control, improving grounding, and addressing underlying causes such as trauma or stress. Since DTD often develops as a response to unresolved emotional pain, therapy is central to recovery.
Psychotherapy:
The primary approach involves trauma-informed therapy, where clinicians help individuals explore triggers and process past trauma safely. Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Hypnotherapy (administered by trained professionals) can help manage dissociation and strengthen self-awareness.
Medication:
There are no medications specifically for DTD, but antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to reduce related symptoms like anxiety, depression, or insomnia.
Lifestyle and Self-Regulation:
Developing grounding techniques—such as focusing on sensory experiences, journaling, or practicing mindfulness—can help reduce dissociative episodes. Maintaining consistent sleep, nutrition, and daily routines also supports emotional stability.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Since trance experiences can occur in religious or cultural contexts, clinicians must approach diagnosis and treatment with cultural awareness, ensuring that normal spiritual practices are not misdiagnosed as pathological.
How to Support Someone with DTD
Supporting someone with Dissociative Trance Disorder requires patience, calmness, and understanding. During a trance episode, the person may appear unresponsive or confused, which can be frightening to witness. The best approach is to remain calm, ensure the person’s safety, and speak softly until the episode passes. Avoid shaking or shouting at them, as this may increase distress when they regain awareness.
Outside of episodes, offer emotional reassurance and validate their experience rather than dismissing it as “weird” or “attention-seeking.” Encourage professional treatment and help them develop grounding techniques—such as naming objects around them, focusing on textures, or engaging in physical activities—to stay connected to the present moment.
If episodes occur frequently or are triggered by stress, help create a stable, low-stress environment. Remind them that dissociation is a coping mechanism, not a character flaw. Your steady support, combined with therapy, can play a powerful role in helping them feel safe and understood.
Dissociative Trance Disorder is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects how a person experiences consciousness and identity. Though episodes can be frightening or disorienting, effective therapy, grounding strategies, and compassionate support can help individuals regain stability and control.
With consistent treatment and understanding from loved ones, people living with DTD can learn to manage symptoms, reduce episode frequency, and rebuild a stronger sense of self. Recognizing the disorder and addressing its underlying causes—especially trauma—are key steps toward healing and long-term recovery.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or severe mental health distress, immediate help is available.
United States & Canada: Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
International: You can find local hotlines worldwide here: https://findahelpline.com
If immediate danger is present, always contact your local emergency services.
