Depersonalization disorder

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Coping and support

While depersonalization can be frightening, it isn't necessarily harmful. Realizing that you don't have some major neurological problem or serious mental illness can be very reassuring, and may help you cope with depersonalization.

  • Read about the condition. A number of books are available that discuss why depersonalization occurs and how to cope with it.
  • Join a support group. Websites and local support groups can help you recognize you aren't alone and learn what helps others.
  • Practice specific therapy techniques. Counseling for depersonalization may involve practicing certain techniques to help resolve feelings of depersonalization on a daily basis. Two such techniques include cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy.
References
  1. Depersonalization disorder. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-IV-TR. 4th ed. Arlington, Va.: American Psychiatric Association; 2000. http://www.psychiatryonline.com. Accessed May 2, 2011.
  2. Simeon D. Depersonalization disorder: A contemporary overview. CNS Drugs. 2004;18:343.
  3. Hunter ECM, et al. The epidemiology of depersonalization and derealisation. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology. 2004;39:9.
  4. Kihlstrom J, et al. Dissociative disorders. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology. 2005;1:227.
DS01149 July 7, 2011

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