Hello there! What you're describing certainly sounds unusual, and I can understand why you're searching for answers. While I cannot provide a diagnosis as I am not a healthcare professional, it's possible that what you're experiencing could be linked to something such as ADHD or dissociation, two conditions that can occasionally involve spacing out and forgetting things. Since you mentioned that this usually happens in episodes, it could potentially be related to stress or anxiety.
I have OCD and it's in the usual form - nonsense rituals and intrusive thoughts. I'm not competent to deal with other forms of OCD, but this doesn't sound much like it. Idk. I've just never heard of it, maybe. You mentioned that it feels like you're wearing rose-colored glasses and then waking up to a reality. It almost sounds like you might be experiencing some form of dissociation or daydreaming. It's fascinating and perplexing at the same time. I wish I had more knowledge to offer, but your description is quite unlike the typical OCD experiences I'm familiar with 🤷🏽♀️
I'm a big daydreamer and that's affected my brain on a level I couldn't imagine. Your description of feeling like you're in a "dreamworld" resonates with me deeply. I often find myself drifting into another dimension, sometimes losing track of time and details around me in the process. It's like living in a movie. This has caused me to forget conversations and events, and like you, I often need reminders to piece things back together. I've always had a vivid imagination, and while it's a source of creativity and joy, it can also be a double-edged sword.
One thing that has helped me is practicing mindfulness. It sounds cliché, but taking a few moments each day to ground myself in the present has made a difference. I've started journaling my thoughts, which helps me sort through the mental clutter. When I feel myself slipping into a daydream, I try to bring my focus back to my breath or my surroundings. It's a small step, but it's been surprisingly effective.
Your mention of "KFC" made me smile btw. Love it hhaha
@stargirle Good advice. Another strategy that has worked for me personally is setting specific times for daydreaming. It might sound strange, but giving myself permission to daydream at certain times has reduced the frequency of these episodes during more critical moments. I also talk openly with my friends and family about what I'm experiencing. Their support and understanding have been invaluable, making it easier to cope with the challenges.
@CrisChris That's such an interesting approach – setting specific times for daydreaming. I never considered that before, but it makes perfect sense. I think I'm going to try that out. Another thing that has been somewhat helpful for me is creating a more structured daily routine. When I have a clear plan for my day, I find it easier to stay grounded and focused. Unfortunately, i don’t have a strong support system from my family but I’ve came to terms with it, so that’s fine I guess. But yes, if you have such a support system it helps a lot I can only imagine haha
@GDreamy Thank you for your reply! I have suspected it to be some type of dissociation before. And I will definitely look into more into your suggestions 😊
@anabelvandervort93 Thank you for your reply! From what I heard ocd can come in many ways, and I was mostly curious if my impulses align with the disorder. Non the less your answer was very helpful and gave me some new insights. Have a great day 😊
@stargirle Thank you for your advice! I've also noticed that grounding and meditation make huge differences. Although I still have a long way to go to master the art. As well as sometimes just taking time to let my thoughts flow and waiting for my brain to cool down.
I love your idea of journaling and will try to do so myself. Take care!
@CrisChris Thank you for your input. I've tried to set timers for meditation and rest. But you are right, maybe I need time to just let my thoughts go feral too 🤔. I will definitely try it out. Have a good one 😌
I read your post and can relate to a lot of what you're saying. I've been diagnosed with Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder (DPDR) about two years ago. It's like you're physically present, but mentally, you're somewhere else. The world feels distant and almost surreal, like you're watching everything through a foggy lens. Therapy has been a crucial part of my journey. CBT has helped me identify and challenge the thought patterns that contribute to my DPDR. It's not a quick fix, but it has provided me with some tools to manage the symptoms more effectively.
Frequent zoning out can sometimes be because of various reasons like ADHD or depression or hormonal changes. it is better you meet a mental health therapist if it is affecting your daily life. Therapist would help you in understanding the seriousness of this dissociation with its various symptoms.
Spacing out or zoning out form conversations can be because of various reasons like lack of sleep or bored of the conversation or routine task so you are bored or prolonged stress or trauma. This will lead to automatically mind zoning out and start day dreaming to make it fun.
There are various grounding techniques like having an essential oil along with you and breathing that fragrance in set period of time, running cold water or hot water over your hands.
You have to start becoming aware of what triggers you to zone out. is it the place, the conversation. This a therapist will help you in great deal to identify the triggers and become aware of this patterns and take steps to change this.
Mindfulness helps a great deal where you have to be consciously aware and be in the present. so if a person is talking you try to focus on the person, body language, their expression, summarizing what person says, ask questions back to engage in the conversation so it will help you to be in the present.
exercise regulary. set a routine of yoga and meditation everyday
You can do mental activity like sudoku or crosswords or counting in reverse number from 100 to 1. this will keep your mind from distracting.
CBT is the technique which therapist may use for this.