Introduction & Theoretical Background
Grounding techniques are a essential tool for individuals struggling with PTSD or dissociation. Intrusive memories (flashbacks) can make us temporarily lose touch with reality. Other dissociative experiences can mentally take us away from our experience of the present moment. This can be extremely distressing - some people feel like they are losing their minds because of these involuntary experiences. Grounding is a term used to describe any techniques which are used to bring a person back in contact with the present moment. Forms of sensory stimulation (e.g. smells, textures) are commonly used, and grounding statments are also helpful.