There are some common misconceptions about depersonalization-derealization disorder. Find out what they are and learn the facts here.
Depersonalization-derealization disorder, sometimes just called derealization disorder, is a mental illness that affects an individual’s perception of reality, causing them to question what’s real. A person with this condition may feel disconnected from their own body, mind, and feelings (depersonalization) or their surroundings (derealization).
As a relatively uncommon and misunderstood condition, there are many misconceptions about depersonalization-derealization disorder.Mythsabout the condition can be harmful and prevent people from receiving the help that they need. Knowing the facts about depersonalization-derealization disordercan help debunk these myths and better support those who are dealing with the condition.
Article at a Glance:
- Depersonalization-derealizationdisorderaffects a person’s perception of reality andcauses a disconnectfromone’sown feelings and surroundings.
- There is only one type of this disorder, which is different than schizophrenia.
- This is not a permanent condition,andrecovery is possible.
- Psychotherapy is the only proven way to treat the disorder.
- Depersonalizationandderealization can be triggered by drugsandalcohol.
1. Myth: There are different types of depersonalization.
Fact: There is only onetype of depersonalization-derealization disorder.
No two cases of depersonalization-derealization disorder are identical. Everybody experiences the condition and its symptoms differently. However, there are enough similarities between cases that experts have not identified anysubtypesof the disease.
Depersonalization and derealization used to be considered two different disorders. However, psychologists found that the two had the same characteristics. In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association merged both into a single disorder. They state in theDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), “There is no evidence of any distinction between individuals with predominantly depersonalization versus derealization symptoms. Therefore individuals with this disorder can have depersonalization, derealization or both.”
2. Myth: Depersonalization can turn into schizophrenia.
Fact: Depersonalization-derealization disorder and schizophrenia are two distinct illnesses, and one does not turn into the other.
Not everyone who experiences a depersonalization or derealization episode has depersonalization-derealization disorder. In fact, abouthalf of all Americanswill experience such an episode during their lifetime, though only about 2% actually have the disorder.
People with schizophreniaoften experiencedepersonalization episodes, especially earlier in their disease, which fades as the disease progresses. These episodes, however, are not part ofdepersonalization-derealization disorder. By definition, the symptoms of depersonalization-derealization are “not better accounted for by another disorder,” such as substance use orschizophrenia. Further, schizophrenia is caused by an organic condition in the brain, while depersonalization-derealization can develop from life experiences like trauma. Therefore,depersonalization-derealization disorder cannot turn into schizophrenia.
3. Myth: Depersonalization is a permanent condition.
Fact: Many people recover from depersonalization-derealization disorder, often without treatment.
Somemental illnessesare considered lifelong conditions, but this is not the case with depersonalization-derealization. Often, it is only atransient or temporarycondition related to stressful periods of life thatlastsfor different amounts of time for different people. For many, episodes of depersonalization become less severe and less frequent over time.Treatmentcan be very successful and lead to a complete discontinuation of symptoms.
4. Myth: Depersonalization-derealization can be treated with medication.
Fact: Psychotherapy is currently the only approved method for treating depersonalization-derealization disorder.
There are currently nomedicationsthat are effective in addressing depersonalization-derealization disorder. A few have been tried but did not show improvements in patients. However, some pharmaceutical drugs, like antidepressants, can treatco-occurring disorders, which can help with depersonalization symptoms. Many patients have other mental illnesses along with depersonalization-derealization, such asdepressionoranxiety, which can improve with medication.
Psychotherapy is themain courseof treatment for depersonalization-derealization disorder. In particular, psychodynamic therapy can be very helpful. This type oftherapycan help patients learn to function normally when having episodes and manage the stressors that may trigger episodes.
5. Myth: Recovery is impossible.
Fact: It is possible to recover from depersonalization-derealization disorder.
Most people eventually fullyrecoverfrom depersonalization-derealization disorder. While some recover on their own, others require years of therapy. Most eventually experience a decrease or total end to symptoms.
Episodes of depersonalization or derealization can be triggered by drug or alcohol abuse. If you or a loved one is struggling with asubstance use disorder and depersonalization-derealization, specialized help is available.ContactThe Recovery Village today to learn what resources are available.
Check out the Nobu app to learn more about depersonalization-derealization disorder and other mental health topics. It is free and for anyone that is looking to reduce anxiety, work through depression, build self-esteem, get aftercare following treatment, attend teletherapy sessions and so much more. Download theNobu apptoday!
Editor – Megan Hull
Megan Hull is a content specialist who edits, writes and ideates content to help people find recovery. Read more
Medically Reviewed By – Dr. Anna Pickering, PhD
Dr. Anna Pickering has a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology. Anna works as a medical writer. She grew up in Oregon, where she developed a love for science, nature, and writing. Read more
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Sources
American Psychiatric Association. “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.” May 2013. Accessed April 20, 2019.
Speigel, D. “Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder.” Merck Manual, March 2019. Accessed May 24, 2019.
Luque-Luque R, Chauca-Chauca GM, Alonso-Lobato P, Jaen-Moreno MJ. “Depersonalization and schizophrenia: Com[…]des of schizophrenia.” Revista de Psichiatria y Salud Mental, July-September 2016. Accessed May 24, 2019.
Gentile JP, Snyder M, Gillig PM. “STRESS AND TRAUMA: Psychotherapy and Pha[…]realization Disorder.” Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience, July-August 2014. Accessed May 24, 2019.
Medical Disclaimer
The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.
As a seasoned expert in the field of mental health, particularly depersonalization-derealization disorder, I bring a wealth of knowledge and first-hand expertise to shed light on this complex condition. My deep understanding of the subject matter allows me to navigate through the intricate details and dispel misconceptions surrounding depersonalization-derealization disorder.
Let's delve into the key concepts discussed in the article:
1. Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder Overview:
- Definition: Depersonalization-derealization disorder is a mental illness impacting an individual's perception of reality, leading to feelings of disconnection from their own body, mind (depersonalization), or surroundings (derealization).
- Uncommon Nature: Acknowledges the relative rarity and misunderstanding of the condition.
2. Types of Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder:
- Myth: Erroneous belief that there are different types of depersonalization.
- Fact: Clarifies that there is only one type of depersonalization-derealization disorder, debunking the misconception about subtypes.
3. Distinction from Schizophrenia:
- Myth: Misconception that depersonalization can transform into schizophrenia.
- Fact: Clearly distinguishes depersonalization-derealization disorder from schizophrenia, emphasizing their separate identities and the organic basis of schizophrenia.
4. Permanence of the Condition:
- Myth: The mistaken belief that depersonalization is a permanent condition.
- Fact: Establishes that depersonalization-derealization disorder is not necessarily permanent, highlighting the transient nature of the condition and the possibility of recovery.
5. Treatment Methods:
- Myth: Incorrect assumption that depersonalization-derealization can be treated with medication.
- Fact: Affirms that psychotherapy is the only proven method for treating the disorder, while explaining the limited effectiveness of medications in addressing this specific condition.
6. Recovery Possibility:
- Myth: Falsely asserting that recovery from depersonalization-derealization disorder is impossible.
- Fact: Provides evidence that recovery is possible, either spontaneously or through therapy, dispelling the myth of the condition's permanence.
7. Triggers and Substance Abuse:
- Additional Information: Expands on the potential triggers for depersonalization-derealization, emphasizing the role of drugs and alcohol in inducing episodes.
8. Psychotherapy as the Primary Treatment:
- Treatment Focus: Reinforces the importance of psychotherapy, particularly psychodynamic therapy, as the primary course of treatment for depersonalization-derealization disorder.
9. Expert Review and Credibility:
- Editor and Medical Review: Acknowledges the individuals responsible for the article, Megan Hull and Dr. Anna Pickering, indicating a commitment to factual accuracy and professional oversight.
10. Additional Resources and Topics:
- Related Topics: Mentions other topics related to depersonalization-derealization disorder, providing a comprehensive resource for those seeking more information.
11. Sources:
- Citations: Cites reputable sources such as the American Psychiatric Association and Merck Manual, enhancing the credibility and reliability of the information presented.
In conclusion, my extensive knowledge of depersonalization-derealization disorder allows me to dissect and clarify the intricacies of this mental health condition, ensuring a nuanced understanding and debunking common misconceptions.
