What is Depersonalization Disorder?
Depersonalization disorder is a mental health condition characterized by feelings of detachment from one's own body, thoughts, and emotions. People who experience this disorder often feel like they are observing their own life from outside their body, as if they are a bystander in their own life. They may also feel disconnected from their environment, as if they are living in a surreal dream-like state or that nothing is real. Symptoms of depersonalization disorder can vary in intensity and duration, and may be triggered by stress, trauma, or other mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
Signs and Symptoms of Depersonalization
People with depersonalization disorder may experience a variety of signs and symptoms. Common symptoms include:
• Feeling like one's body, thoughts, and emotions are not their own
• Feeling detached from the environment
• A sense of being in a surreal dream-like state
• Feeling like one's perception of reality is distorted
• Feeling like one's movements, thoughts, and emotions are robotic or mechanical
• A sense of being an outside observer of one's own life
• Feeling like one's thoughts are not their own
• Feeling like one's body is unreal or changed in some way
• Difficulty concentrating or focusing on tasks
• Memory difficulties
Causes of Depersonalization
The exact cause of depersonalization disorder is unknown. However, it is thought to be related to psychological and environmental factors. Traumatic events, chronic stress, and other mental health conditions can all contribute to the onset of depersonalization disorder. It is also thought to be related to changes in the brain's chemistry, with some research suggesting that people with depersonalization disorder have abnormal levels of certain neurotransmitters.
Treatment for Depersonalization Disorder
Depersonalization disorder is treatable. Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication. The goal of treatment is to identify and address the underlying causes of the disorder and to help the person learn coping strategies to reduce symptoms. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, and avoiding drugs and alcohol may also be recommended.