What Are Derealization & Depersonalization Disorder?

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Depersonalization and Derealization Disorders are dissociative disorders. People with these conditions feel detached from their bodies. Depersonalization means that the individual feels disconnected from their themselves. People who experience depersonalization feel removed from their feelings and their body. They sometimes feel physically and emotionally numb. Some people report that they don’t feel “real,” as if they’re not a human being. It can be difficult to tell if their memories are theirs.

Derealization occurs when a person feels detached from their environment. Life feels surreal, and they don’t feel connected to what’s happening around them. It’s as if they’re watching themselves from the outside as if their life is a movie. People who experience derealization have intense sensory issues. Things might look blurry or incredibly sharp; things may seem louder than they are in reality. People with both these disorders are aware of what they’re feeling as opposed to people who are experiencing psychosis. Someone who is in a state of depersonalization or derealization knows that what they’re feeling isn’t reality, whereas someone who is psychotic does not.

If you’re experiencing either of these conditions, speaking with a therapist, whether that’s an online counselor or someone in your area, can help you. You don’t have to go through these experiences on your own.

IMPORTANT: The information in this video is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information contained in this video is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your doctor.