Depersonalization disorder

Depersonalization-derealization disorder is a mental disorder marked by periods of feeling disconnected or detached from oneself, observing oneself in an objective way as if from an outside perspective, or experiencing a sense of unreality, strangeness or unfamiliarity with self or body (depersonalization); and/or a feeling of being detached or disconnected from the world, feeling as if the world is unreal, dreamlike, foggy, lifeless, or visually distorted (derealization).

Clinical Presentation

People with this disorder may feel as though they are an outside observer of their thoughts, feelings, body, or parts of their body, perhaps as if they are living in a dream or a movie. Reality testing remains intact; that is, the person is aware that their subjective experience is a change from their normal mental functioning. This distinguishes the disorder from a psychotic disorder, where the person loses contact with reality and experiences true hallucinations or delusions.

Etiology

The exact cause of depersonalization-derealization disorder is not known. However, it appears to be linked to a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. These may include severe stress, changes in brain function related to perception and memory, and certain personality traits. It is often associated with childhood trauma, such as severe physical or sexual abuse, and can occur in the context of other mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.

Diagnosis and Criteria

Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms, ruling out other potential causes such as neurological disorders, certain types of epilepsy, and recreational drug use. To be formally diagnosed with depersonalization-derealization disorder, a person must meet certain criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Treatment

There is no definitive cure for depersonalization-derealization disorder, but treatment can be beneficial. This typically includes cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps the individual to understand and adjust thought patterns leading to symptoms, and it may also include the use of medications such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, or certain antipsychotic drugs.

See also

• Dissociative disorder
• Anxiety disorder
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Depersonalization disorder Resources
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