Many people experience moments when they feel “out of touch” with themselves or their surroundings. These feelings can be confusing and even scary. But when these experiences become regular and affect everyday life, they may be signs of a mental health condition called Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder. In this article, we will explain what this disorder is, what causes it, and how it can be treated. The goal is to help you understand it in simple, clear language.
What Is Depersonalization?
Depersonalization is when a person feels disconnected from their own body or thoughts. It’s like watching yourself from the outside, as if you’re not real or not in control. You may feel numb, robotic, or like you’re floating away from your own body.
Common Symptoms of Depersonalization
- Feeling like you are an outside observer of yourself
- A sense that your body or limbs are distorted
- Emotional or physical numbness
- Feeling like you’re not in control of your actions or speech
These symptoms can last for a few minutes, hours, or even longer. They often come and go.
What Is Derealization?
Derealization is when a person feels like their surroundings are not real. Things around you might seem foggy, dreamlike, or distorted. The world can feel flat or colorless, like you’re living in a movie or behind a glass wall.
Common Symptoms of Derealization
- Feeling like the world is fake or unreal
- Objects look blurry, colorless, or oddly shaped
- The environment feels dreamlike or unfamiliar
- Sounds may seem too loud or too soft
Just like depersonalization, derealization can come and go. It can happen during times of stress, anxiety, or trauma.
What Is Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder?
When these feelings of depersonalization or derealization happen frequently and interfere with daily life, it becomes a disorder. It is called Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder (DPDR).
This disorder is recognized as a dissociative disorder in the medical field. It is different from a brief or occasional episode. With DPDR, the symptoms last a long time and cause significant distress.
How Common Is It?
Many people will have a brief experience of depersonalization or derealization at some point in life. These episodes often happen during high stress, after a traumatic event, or while using drugs.
However, only about 1% to 2% of the population develops chronic DPDR. It can affect people of all ages, but it usually begins during the teenage years or early adulthood.
What Causes DPDR?
There is no single cause of Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder. But there are many factors that can trigger or contribute to it.
1. Stress or Trauma
Many people with DPDR have gone through a stressful or traumatic event. This could include:
- Emotional or physical abuse
- Car accidents
- Natural disasters
- Loss of a loved one
2. Anxiety and Panic Disorders
People with high anxiety or panic attacks often experience feelings of detachment. In some cases, this can lead to ongoing DPDR symptoms.
3. Depression
Depression can cause emotional numbness, which may feel like depersonalization.
4. Drug Use
Some drugs, especially hallucinogens like LSD or marijuana, can cause temporary or long-term episodes of depersonalization and derealization.
5. Other Mental Health Conditions
DPDR can also appear in people who have other conditions such as:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Schizophrenia
How Is It Diagnosed?
Doctors or mental health professionals use a combination of interviews and questionnaires to diagnose DPDR. There is no lab test or brain scan that can directly diagnose the disorder.
Key Points During Diagnosis:
- How long have the symptoms lasted?
- Do the symptoms cause distress?
- Do they interfere with work, school, or relationships?
- Are the symptoms better explained by another condition?
If symptoms last more than a few weeks and affect daily life, it may be diagnosed as DPDR.
How Is DPDR Treated?
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder, but there are several helpful options.
1. Talk Therapy (Psychotherapy)
This is the most common treatment. One helpful form is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It helps people understand their thoughts and feelings and learn how to manage them.
2. Medications
There is no specific drug for DPDR, but some medications may help reduce symptoms, especially if the person also has anxiety or depression. These include:
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety medications
3. Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques
Mindfulness teaches people to stay in the present moment. Grounding techniques can also help by focusing the mind on physical sensations like:
- Holding an ice cube
- Listening to sounds around you
- Naming objects in the room
4. Lifestyle Changes
Taking care of the body can improve mental health. These include:
- Getting enough sleep
- Avoiding alcohol or drugs
- Exercising regularly
- Practicing relaxation techniques
- like deep breathing
Can People Recover?
Yes, many people recover from Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder. Recovery might take time, especially if the symptoms have lasted for a while. The key is getting the right support and treatment. Some people fully recover, while others learn how to manage their symptoms and live full lives.
Conclusion
Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder can make people feel lost or disconnected, but it is a real condition with real treatments. Understanding it is the first step. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional. With the right help, recovery is possible.
Related topics:
- How to Stop Someone From Having a Panic Attack?
- Is Burnout Officially a Mental Illness?
- Dissociative Disorders: Types, Causes, And Treatment Options
