Symptoms of Depersonalization can be overwhelming, to say the least, but understanding them plays a huge part in recovery.

Let’s begin with the most common symptoms of Depersonalization and Derealization (DPDR):

– Feelings of Unreality, Brain Fog, Disconnected, Detached, Spacey, Fuzzy Mind
– Visual Disturbances, Focusing, Photophobia (light sensitivity)
– Inability to Concentrate, Inability to retain information, memory difficulties, loss of focus
– Sleep Difficulties, Inability to fall asleep and remain asleep, early waking, unrefreshing sleep
– Feeling Wired and Tired, Tense, Anxious and Fatigued at the same time.
– Loss of Appetite
– Lightheaded, Dizzy, Off Balance
– Emotionally Flat
– Anxiety
– Heightened Symptoms in Morning (Fuzzy mind, exhaustion, Lightheaded, anxious)
– Sugar and other Carbohydrate Sensitivity (tiredness), Minor Hypoglycemic Reactions
– Feelings of Frustration
– Irritability
– Strong Feelings of Fatigue
– Minor Adrenal (Anxious) Fatigue

The difference between Depersonalization and Derealization:

Depersonalization: Feeling of unreality, detachment and disconnection
Derealization: Feeling that your surroundings look or feel unfamiliar, different or “off” to you.

Cause of Depersonalization and/or Derealization DPDR:

Feelings of Depersonalization and/or Derealization do not appear overnight. They are generally preceded by days, weeks, or months of constant fearful worry about some situation or issue. Without fear, dpdr could not exist.

If an individual is constantly going over a problem in their mind, in a fearful way, the mind eventually becomes fatigued. The more tired the mind becomes, the slower it becomes to focus, retain facts or concentrate. Naturally, when fear enters the picture, it releases adrenaline which only serves to fuel the whole cycle. Fear- Adrenaline- Fear. This is what eventually leads to full blown Depersonalization or Derealization.

The Personality Profile

The person prone to DPDR is someone who:
– Is very Intelligent
– Is an overachiever
– Is a perfectionist
– Follows the rules (the good guys)
– Avoids confrontations
– Reactive personality to Caffeine, Nicotine, Sugar, Alcohol, Medications, Recreational Drugs

With the proper approach, anyone who is struggling with Depersonalization or Derealization is able to learn how to interrupt the intrusive symptoms and by doing so, LOSES THEIR FEAR OF THEM. This is half the battle.

Once the fear is gone and one has the ability to turn off the triggers, the mind is able to refresh and rejuvenate. Clarity returns.

Complete recovery relies on thinking correctly and eating in a specific say for relief of symptoms of DPDR, which maintains balanced blood sugar levels and boosts Serotonin in the brain naturally.

The beginning of recovery is understanding what these symptoms are and the cause of the symptoms. Knowledge truly is power.

Remember, Depersonalization and Derealization are basically the product of a tired mind…not from lack of sleep but the habit of constant fearful thinking. You are not ill. This is a learned behavior that can be easily unlearned.

Best to all,

Ronnie Freedman, PhD
Depersonalization Treatment Center
215-635-4700
https://www.depersonalizationtreatmentcenter.com
info@depersonalizationtreatmentcenter.com
Open 7 Days a Week, 9-9