Demi Lovato discusses the mental health struggles that come with achieving fame at an early age in her new documentary, where she reveals an important insight that experts believe is vital to grasping trauma.

In “Child Star,” available on Hulu and Disney+, the 32-year-old artist shares that there are significant periods during her teenage years on set that she cannot recall.

At one moment, Lovato mentions to her former “Camp Rock” co-star Alyson Stoner, 31, that while she remembers a lot from the 2008 Disney Channel original movie, she has little recollection of the sequel, “Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam,” released in 2010. Stoner also reflects on having a similar experience.

“Disassociation: It’s a shared experience among all of us,” Lovato shares.

Experts on mental health highlight that both dissociation and disassociation – terms often used synonymously – are frequently seen in individuals who have experienced trauma. To shield itself, the brain may dissociate, which means it can block certain memories and experiences from awareness.

“It’s a protective response where the mind shuts down to withstand what it endures,” states psychotherapist Stephanie Sarkis. “It’s the brain’s method of safeguarding itself, allowing you to manage with the trauma you face.”

Understanding Dissociation

Dissociation manifests differently among various individuals.

Some may experience gaps in their memory as a result of dissociation, while others might dissociate during a traumatic event or as they remember one. Some find solace in visually retreating to a dark space in their mind when dissociating. Another variant, known as derealization, involves feeling disconnected from reality.

At times, individuals may experience a sense of time slowing down or feel detached from their environment.

Some people undergoing dissociation may perceive themselves as observers of a traumatic situation, almost as if they are watching the events unfold from a distance, outside their bodies.

Therapist Philip Lewis explains, “People often talk about feeling present in the room, yet looking down as if the events aren’t happening to them, but to someone else.” This detachment can occur later during a trauma response.

In her discussion with Raven-Symoné, known for her childhood roles on “The Cosby Show” and “That’s So Raven,” Lovato shared that she cannot remember collaborating with Symoné on “Sonny with a Chance,” despite being the star of that show, until Symoné brought it up much later.

“My disassociation made it so that I don’t remember many aspects of the show I was in,” Lovato admits. “However, I do recall that I was difficult to work with because I was dealing with a lot of pain.”

Symoné acknowledged this and mentioned that Lovato seemed somewhat absent during their interactions.

“You weren’t the kindest individual,” Symoné remarked. “But having worked in the industry for as long as both of us have, I recognized the faraway look in your eyes and didn’t take it personally. I just thought, ‘Something must be going on.'”

Clinical psychologist Kevin Chapman states that the disinterested look noted by Symoné is quite common among those who dissociate.

“It’s as if they are physically present but mentally checked out,” Chapman explains. “It’s evident when someone is not fully engaged.”

Individuals who dissociate may eventually access traumatic memories that they had previously suppressed. Trauma therapy aims to gently assist individuals in recalling details of an event they might not fully remember. This process is essential for allowing individuals to confront their trauma and begin their healing journey.

“One objective of trauma therapy is to build a trusting relationship with the person, ensure a sense of safety in the environment, and remind them that they hold control over themselves and are not in imminent danger,” Lewis explains. “This step-by-step approach helps in gradually discussing the events.”

What other insights has Demi Lovato shared regarding child stardom and mental health?

Lovato opened up during a recent chat with The Hollywood Reporter about her well-documented challenges with fame and her project with Disney addressing the issues faced by child stars.

“Deep down, I believed that succeeding in the industry would earn the affection from my biological father that I craved. He had his struggles, and I think I was always seeking success in hopes it would bring me back into his view and make him proud,” Lovato shared in an article released in August.

“But having addressed those father issues, I find I don’t need the entertainment world as much as I used to, and I am proud of where I stand now,” Lovato added.

Her latest documentary serves as a sequel to “Demi Lovato: Dancing With the Devil,” which chronicled her struggles and recovery following a difficult overdose in 2018.

Contributing: Jay Stahl