Depersonalization is a psychological phenomenon in which a person experiences a feeling of detachment from their own emotions, identity, and physical reality (Simeon, 2004). It is a symptom of many mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Symptoms of depersonalization can include feeling emotionally numb, disconnected from one’s body, and having unreal thoughts and distorted perceptions of reality (Simeon, 2004).
Depersonalization is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Studies have suggested that depersonalization may be linked to a decrease in activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPC) of the brain, which is responsible for regulating emotion (Kaspi et al., 2015). Additionally, depersonalization may be triggered by stress, trauma, substance use, or other mental health issues (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Although there is no single treatment that works for everyone, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been found to be effective in helping individuals manage their depersonalization symptoms (Kaspi et al., 2015). CBT focuses on helping individuals identify and modify their thoughts and behavior in order to reduce stress and manage emotions. Additionally, medications such as antidepressants have been found to help reduce symptoms of depersonalization in some people (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Depersonalization can be a confusing and distressing experience, but there are ways to manage the symptoms. It is important to talk to a mental health professional if you or someone you know is experiencing depersonalization, as they can provide support and guidance to help manage symptoms.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Kaspi, S. P., Gavish, M., & Hermesh, H. (2015). Cognitive behavioral therapy for depersonalization: An update. Current Psychiatry Reports, 17(6). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-015-0590-3
Simeon, D. (2004). Feeling unreal: Depersonalization disorder and the loss of the self. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.