This is a very strange thing...

[Raven]

In October I fell and landed very hard. I shattered my pelvis. I am almost completely recovered now but when I think of the fall I never see it in the first person. I always see it as if I was watching it happen...as if I was an observer. I wonder if that is usual when one has an accident or a trauma.

[fleabiscuit]

1. From the net...

"PTSD or past trauma can lead to depersonalization, when people feel detached from themselves. The exact cause of dissociation is unclear, but it often affects people who have experienced a life-threatening or traumatic event, such as extreme violence, war, a kidnapping, or childhood abuse."

[Raven]

2. Thank you, that makes sense. In a way, it's almost a protective reaction. I wonder if that

would also explain the out of body experiences people who are near death describe.

[fleabiscuit]

4. Yes!

[fleabiscuit]

3. As a side note...

That helps me explain some aspects of my childhood. Depersonalization can indeed be a coping mechanism.

[Skittles]

6. agreed

[Fla Dem]

7. Glad to hear you're recovering. A shattered pelvis is a very serious situation as you well know.

My aunt who at 102 and in relatively good health fell and shattered hers. The doctors wouldn't even attempt to repair it. They just kept her comfortable until the end.