The main reasons for dissociation involve it being a natural coping mechanism for the brain in response to overwhelming stress or trauma. Dissociation can happen briefly in situations of intense stress or tiredness, or as a long-term coping strategy especially if there has been trauma such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, severe neglect, or other distressing experiences often from childhood. When a person experiences threat or trauma and cannot physically escape, the brain may use dissociation to protect the person by disconnecting from the immediate distress or pain. This can manifest as feeling detached from oneself or reality, as if watching life from a distance. Dissociation is also linked to mental health conditions including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and disorders such as dissociative identity disorder. It can also be triggered or worsened by drug use, sensory overload, and other stresses. In some cases, dissociation persists long after the trauma is over, especially if the trauma was not fully processed. If dissociation is frequent or severe, it is important to seek professional help, as it may be part of a dissociative disorder that requires treatment. Treatment can help address the underlying trauma and develop other coping mechanisms. In summary, dissociation happens mainly because the brain uses it to protect against overwhelming stress or trauma, often rooted in past experiences, especially in childhood.