Disorder of depersonalization

Depersonalization Disorder is a psychological condition wherein an individual perceives a detachment from his body or mental processes. This may occur in a persistent or recurring manner. The individual feels as though he is an external observer of his own life.

In many cases, this disorder occurs due to severe stress. A diagnosis is made once the symptoms are examined and other possible causative factors are ruled out. Treatment for depersonalization disorder is done through psychotherapy.
An experience of depersonalization may occur in cases of drug intoxication, sleep deprivation, serious danger or sensory deprivation. Depersonalization may also occur as a symptom of other psychological and physical disorders. However depersonalization disorder is said to be present when it occurs independently of other physical or psychological conditions.

Individuals affected with depersonalization disorder feel a sense of detachment from their body or mind. They may also perceive detachment from their feelings. Some individuals are unable to describe the emotions they experience during such episodes. Some say they experience a dream-like state. The symptoms of depersonalization disorder are always unpleasant and distressing. In severe cases, patients may experience almost intolerable symptoms. Most people with depersonalization disorder suffer from anxiety and depression. Most cases of this disorder are chronic. Sometimes individuals who used to experience recurrent episodes start experiencing continuous symptoms. Individuals experience difficulty while recognizing or describing the symptoms during an episode. They are always aware that the experiences are not real and that they are only related to their feelings. This distinguishes this condition from psychotic disorders.

The diagnosis of depersonalization disorder is done after examining the symptoms of the patient. Once substance abuse, physical conditions and mental disorders are ruled out, a diagnosis of depersonalization disorder is made. The examination may also include MRI and EEG tests to rule out the possibility of physical problems. This is usually done when the symptoms are atypical. In some cases, tests for urine toxicology may also be prescribed. Psychological tests are helpful in making a diagnosis. In most cases of depersonalization disorder, the individual experiences improvement without any intervention. Some also experience a full recovery. Proper recovery can be expected when the symptoms result from temporary stress. In other cases, the symptoms may become chronic. The symptoms of depersonalization disorder may be kept in control when individuals are able to keep their minds focused on other thoughts. In such cases, the disorder causes very little impairment in daily functioning. However some individuals may experience severe anxiety and depression and are hence unable to distract themselves from the episodes.

Treatment for depersonalization disorder focuses on all stress factors linked with the disorder. Stressful situations and conditions that have occurred earlier in life such as child abuse are also taken into consideration. Various types of psychotherapy such as cognitive, behavioral and psychodynamic techniques may be used. Cognitive therapy helps to block persistent thoughts about the depersonalization episodes. Behavioral techniques enable individuals to keep themselves occupied in other activities so as to distract from the depersonalization. Psychodynamic therapy aims at treating the underlying problems that may trigger the disassociation with oneself. Family counseling may be required in case the stress triggers are related to family. Medications to alleviate anxiety and depression may also be given. Exercise is known to help in preventing anxiety and depressive thoughts and hence individuals with depersonalization disorder are advised to practice regular exercise. Exercise helps to improve the overall mood and keeps an individual occupied. Individuals are also advised to take nutritional supplements such as vitamin B, magnesium, folic acid and omega 3 fatty acids to enable proper brain functioning. Relaxation techniques are also known to be beneficial for individuals suffering from depersonalization disorder.