Specific Language to Help Dissociated Loved Ones Distinguish Reality from Internal Thoughts or Feelings

When talking with dissociated loved ones, it can be helpful to provide them with specific language to distinguish reality from internal thoughts or feelings. Here are a few examples:

1. “What you’re feeling right now is a memory from the past. You’re safe here in the present.”
2. “The things you’re seeing and hearing in your mind are not happening in real life right now. They’re memories or feelings from the past.”
3. “You’re having a flashback. It’s like a movie playing in your mind, but it’s not happening right now. You’re safe with me.”
4. “That thought you’re having is not true. It’s a memory or feeling from the past that your mind is playing for you right now.”
5. “Your body is reacting to a past memory, but you’re safe in the present moment. Take a deep breath and remind yourself of where you are right now.”

It’s important to tailor the language to your loved one and their specific experiences, and to use language that feels comfortable and understandable to them. It may take some trial and error to find the right words, but providing clear and consistent language can be a helpful tool in grounding dissociated loved ones and helping them distinguish reality from internal experiences.