What are they?

Depersonalization refers specifically to the experience of feeling separated from oneself or one’s identity. People may feel like they are just going through the motions or that their speech, emotions and sensations aren’t under their control. There is a numbness and robotic quality to functioning. Sufferers describe it as watching life from outside themselves.

Symptoms

Derealization is the sense that the external environment seems unreal or dreamlike. Individuals perceive their surroundings as distorted in shape, colour or texture. It may seem foggy, far away or lacking in significance. Even close friends and family members can appear unfamiliar. Everyday sensations feel dulled or muted.

These symptoms often occur together, precipitated by episodes of severe stress, anxiety, depression or trauma. Existential thoughts, marijuana use, some medications and sleep deprivation can also trigger symptoms. Childhood trauma is linked to increased vulnerability. Treatment primarily involves psychotherapy and medications for underlying mood disorders, along with self-care strategies.

During episodes of depersonalization and derealization, sufferers retain insight that their experiences are not real, unlike psychosis. However, the symptoms cause significant distress and functional impairment similar to that seen in anxiety disorders. Learning to manage emotional overwhelm and thought patterns that exacerbate dissociation is crucial.