Depersonalization
Depersonalization is a mental disorder characterized by persistent or recurrent feelings of being detached (dissociated) from one’s body or mental processes. It is often accompanied by a sense of unreality and changes in self-perception, such as feeling as if you are in a dream or a movie.
Symptoms[edit]
Depersonalization symptoms can be distressing and may include:
- Feeling detached from your physical body
- Feeling as if your body, legs or arms appear distorted, enlarged or shrunken, or that your head is wrapped in cotton
- Emotional or physical numbness of your senses or responses to the world around you
- A sense that your memories lack emotion, and that they may or may not be your own memories
Causes[edit]
Depersonalization is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. This can include severe stress, trauma, or the use of recreational drugs.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment for depersonalization can involve psychotherapy, medication, and self-care techniques. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals to understand and change thought patterns leading to depersonalization and derealization.
See also[edit]
References[edit]