LAKERS RULE!

I’m a problem-solver by nature. My current problem, however, is one that boggles my mind to the extent that I have found only one way to deal with it. I have decided to (just for this one time) engage in Dissociative Behavior. My problem is that the Los Angeles Lakers got swept out of the NBA Playoffs by the Dallas Mavericks … in only the second round. I’m probably their biggest fan, and this post is about my need to find the best way to cope with what just happened.

(Disclaimer: this note is not intended to be offensive to anyone who actually suffers from this disorder.)

Q: What is a Dissociative Disorder?

Tragically, ongoing traumatic conditions such as abuse, community violence, war, or the Lakers losing games in the second round of the NBA Playoffs are not one-time events. For people repeatedly exposed to these experiences, dissociation is an extremely effective coping “skill.”

Q: When Is Dissociation Helpful?

During a traumatic experience such as an accident, disaster, crime victimization, or the Lakers repeatedly losing games, dissociation can help a person tolerate what might otherwise be too difficult to bear. In situations like these, a person may dissociate the memory of the place, circumstances, or feelings about the overwhelming event, mentally escaping from the fear, pain, and horror.

This may make it difficult to later remember the details of the experience. In light of my decision to essentially pretend that none of this happened, I have decided to cancel the press conference that I was planning, as it will no longer be necessary, since there is nothing to discuss…because THIS DIDN’T HAPPEN.