A Guide to Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder

Understanding the nuances of various disorders is crucial for effective treatment and management. One such condition is Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder (DDD), a dissociative disorder that affects many but is often misunderstood. This guide aims to shed light on what causes depersonalization-derealization disorder, its symptoms, diagnostic criteria and treatment options, offering clarity to those affected and their loved ones.

Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder is characterized by persistent or recurrent episodes of depersonalization (feeling detached from one’s own body or thoughts) and/or derealization (experiencing the external world as unreal or dreamlike). These experiences can be distressing and interfere with daily functioning, yet people with DDD maintain an awareness that these feelings are not aligned with reality.

Understanding depersonalization and derealization

• Depersonalization: People feel disconnected from their own body, thoughts or feelings. It’s as if they’re observing themselves from outside their body.
• Derealization: The external environment feels unfamiliar, distorted or unreal. This can affect one’s perception of time, space and distance.

The exact cause of DDD is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors.

Potential causes

• Biological Factors: Neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly those involving serotonin, may play a role.
• Psychological Factors: Traumatic experiences, severe stress or anxiety are commonly associated with DDD onset.
• Environmental Factors: Childhood trauma, neglect or abusive environments may increase the risk.

Risk factors

People with a history of substance abuse, severe stress or other mental health disorders may be more susceptible to developing DDD.

Recognizing the symptoms of DDD is essential for seeking appropriate help.

Common symptoms

1. Persistent Feelings of Detachment: Feeling like an outsider in one’s own life.
2. Emotional Numbness: A lack of emotional response to events or people.
3. Distorted Perception of Time: Feeling that recent events occurred in the distant past.
4. Dreamlike State: The world feels like a foggy or dreamlike place.
5. Visual Distortions: Objects may appear blurry or altered.

Impact on daily life

These symptoms can lead to significant distress and impair social, occupational or other areas of functioning. It’s essential to differentiate between temporary feelings of depersonalization and derealization, which can occur during high stress, and a persistent disorder requiring professional intervention.

The DSM-5, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, provides criteria for diagnosing DDD.

DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria

1. Presence of persistent or recurrent experiences of depersonalization, derealization or both.
2. Reality testing remains intact during episodes.
3. The symptoms cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning.
4. The disturbance is not attributable to physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition.
5. The disturbance is not better explained by another mental disorder, such as schizophrenia or panic disorder.

Although DDD can be challenging to manage, several treatment options can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

Psychotherapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with DDD.
• Mindfulness-Based Therapies: Techniques that focus on being present in the moment can reduce feelings of detachment.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Particularly effective for individuals with co-occurring conditions such as borderline personality disorder.

Medications

While no medication specifically targets DDD, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can help manage associated symptoms like anxiety or depression.

Lifestyle and self-care strategies

• Stress Reduction: Engaging in activities that reduce stress, such as yoga or meditation.
• Healthy Habits: Regular exercise, a balanced diet and sufficient sleep can positively impact mental health.
• Social Support: Connecting with others can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.

1. Seek Professional Help: A mental health professional can provide a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
2. Educate Yourself: Understanding the disorder can reduce fear and enable better management.
3. Practice Grounding Techniques: Techniques like focusing on sensory details can help anchor you in reality.

For family members

1. Be Supportive: Listen and provide a non-judgmental space for your loved one to express their experiences.
2. Encourage Treatment: Support your loved one in seeking and adhering to treatment.
3. Educate Yourself: Understanding DDD can help you provide better support and reduce misunderstandings.

Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder, while distressing, is a manageable condition with appropriate intervention and support. By understanding the symptoms, causes and treatment options, people with DDD and their families can navigate this disorder more effectively. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health issue like DDD, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At Granite Hills Hospital, located in West Allis, Wisconsin, we provide a continuum of care that includes inpatient and outpatient programs. If you are interested in treatment, view our services to learn more or call us today at 414-667-4800.

Granite Hills Hospital is a private behavioral health facility that offers inpatient and outpatient mental health services. We provide evidence-based treatment modalities for adults and adolescents. Our facility has a team of professionals who work with you to best understand your individual needs and connects you to a program that gets you or your loved one on the right path.

We focus on growth and supportive, client-centered care. Our facility is has welcoming atmosphere that promotes healing. Our programs include our inpatient and outpatient programs, which services both adult and adolescent.

We service the Milwaukee area community and are located in West Allis, WI. To schedule a no-cost assessment or for more information, please call 662-895-4900.