Mind Over Matter: Demystifying Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder

Home

Coping

Mind Over Matter: Demystifying...

Mental Health

Anjali Ann Gajendran

May 20 , 2024

What Is Depersonalisation and Derealisation Disorder

Depersonalisation and Derealization Disorder (DDD), also known as DPRD or DPDR, is a defence mechanism the mind uses to cope with excessive stress. It's common for individuals to experience feelings of depersonalisation and/or derealization triggered by stress, trauma, or substance use.

For some, these feelings may last briefly, while for others, they can be recurrent or prolonged, indicating Depersonalisation Derealisation Disorder. A person can experience either one or both sensations simultaneously, or they may come and go over time.

Symptoms include a persistent sense of disconnection from one's body (Depersonalisation) or from the surrounding environment (Derealisation).

Depersonalisation Symptoms

Feeling like a ‘robot’
Feeling that you're not in control of your speech or movements
Feeling like you are an outside observer of your own mental processes
Feeling like you are ‘outside’ of your body or parts of your body
Emotional or physical ‘numbness’

Photo by Shoeib Abolhassani Team on Unsplash

Derealisation Symptoms

Feeling as if you are living in a dream or a movie
Feeling as though you are ‘in a bubble’ or ‘behind glass’
Feelings of being alienated from or unfamiliar with your surroundings.
Your surroundings appear distorted, blurry, two-dimensional or artificial, or a heightened awareness and clarity of your surroundings
Distortions in your perception of time
Distortions of distance and the size and shape of objects around you

It is important to remember that symptoms of Depersonalisation and Derealisation Disorder can differ for each individual and may be difficult to put into words. If you don’t recognise your symptoms in the above list, that doesn’t mean you aren’t experiencing it. If you think you are experiencing Depersonalisation and Derealisation Disorder and the symptoms are affecting your day-to-day life, you may want to seek some treatment.

Photo by Noah Silliman Team on Unsplash

Understanding the Causes of Depersonalisation and Derealisation Disorder

Various factors can trigger Depersonalisation and/or Derealisation symptoms. These may include:

Traumatic experiences like illness or accidents
Neurological conditions such as migraine or epilepsy
Stress and fatigue
Emotional turmoil and fear
Meditation practices
Substance use, including Cannabis or Ecstasy
Association with other mental health conditions like anxiety, panic disorder, depression, PTSD, OCD, or Schizophrenia

Photo by Christopher Ott Team on Unsplash

Addressing Depersonalisation and Derealisation Disorder Symptoms

Therapy, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), counselling, and psychotherapy, can effectively manage DDD symptoms. Duration of therapy varies; some find relief in a few sessions, while others may need ongoing support.

Seeking Support from Trusted Individuals

Discussing feelings with a partner, teacher, friend, or family member can provide solace and assistance.

Consulting a GP or Mental Health Professional

Individuals experiencing DDD can approach their GP for diagnosis and treatment options, such as medication or therapy referrals.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez �� Team on Unsplash

How to Help Someone with Depersonalisation and Derealisation Disorder

Supporting someone with Depersonalisation and Derealisation Disorder (DDD) can be challenging. Here are some ways to help:

Show Acceptance: Accept the situation without feeling pressured to fully understand DDD. It's difficult to grasp without experiencing it, and that's perfectly okay.
Listen: Actively listen with empathy and reassurance. Avoid questioning or doubting their experience; acknowledge it's real for them. Depersonalisation and depression can keep individuals from expressing their concerns honestly. Hearing them out can help them open up slowly or feel understood.
Be Patient and Calm: Your patience and calmness are invaluable. Stress can worsen their symptoms, so your reassuring presence is crucial. Anxiety and depersonalisation can go hand-in-hand, so it's also important to encourage them to practise mindfulness or seek anxiety support.
Avoid Assumptions: Try to refrain from saying "You look okay" or "You seem fine to me" or similar remarks. DDD is an invisible illness. Offer comfort, ask how you can help, and use gentle physical gestures to connect.
Don’t Take Things Personally: Understand that emotional blunting can be a symptom. A lack of enthusiasm doesn't mean they don't care.
Do Some Research: Taking the time to learn about DDD will help you better support them. Be cautious with potentially triggering online forums, and refer to reliable resources for information.
Create a Safe Environment: Ensure they feel safe and secure with comforting items like blankets, aromatherapy oils, music, or warm drinks.
Build a Network: Identify other people who can help when you're not available, expanding their support network.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez �� Team on Unsplash

Find Professional Support: Seek out local therapists or specialized clinics like the NHS Depersonalisation Research Unit. Offer support before and after therapy sessions.
Work Together: Collaborate on managing symptoms. Recognize that while they are ill, they can still make decisions about their care.
Consider a Crisis Plan: Help them create a crisis plan for times when DDD becomes overwhelming, including contacts and out-of-hours support.
Look After Yourself: Take care of your own well-being. Ensure you get enough rest, eat well, and seek support from others with similar experiences.

While Depersonalisation and Derealisation Disorder (DDD) present challenges, they also offer opportunities for growth and healing. Seeking support at Heart It Out can empower individuals to navigate these challenges and rediscover a sense of connection and well-being.