Zaburzenie depersonalizacji i derealizacji
Leczenie

Zaburzenie depersonalizacji i derealizacji (DPDR) charakteryzuje się uczuciem oderwania od własnego ciała, myśli oraz otoczenia, manifestując się jako depersonalizacja (nierealność siebie) i derealizacja (nierealność świata zewnętrznego). Podstawą leczenia jest psychoterapia, w tym terapia poznawczo-behawioralna (CBT), terapia psychodynamiczna, dialektyczno-behawioralna (DBT) oraz EMDR, które uczą pacjentów rozumienia mechanizmów zaburzenia, technik uziemiających oraz radzenia sobie ze stresem i traumą. Wsparcie stanowią także praktyki mindfulness, takie jak medytacja uważności, ćwiczenia oddechowe, progresywna relaksacja mięśni, joga i tai chi. Farmakoterapia nie jest specyficznie zatwierdzona dla DPDR, jednak stosuje się leki przeciwdepresyjne (SSRI: fluoksetyna, sertralina, citalopram), stabilizatory nastroju (lamotrygina, rozpoczynana od 25 mg/dobę z powolnym zwiększaniem co 2 tygodnie), leki przeciwlękowe (benzodiazepiny z ostrożnością) oraz przeciwpsychotyczne, głównie w leczeniu współwystępujących zaburzeń. Powtarzalna przezczaszkowa stymulacja magnetyczna (rTMS) w obszarze połączenia skroniowo-ciemieniowego (TPJ) wykazuje poprawę u 50% pacjentów po 3 tygodniach i 68% po 6 tygodniach terapii.

Leczenie zaburzenia depersonalizacji i derealizacji

Zaburzenie depersonalizacji i derealizacji (DPDR) to złożone zaburzenie psychiczne charakteryzujące się uczuciem oderwania od własnego ciała, myśli oraz otoczenia. Pacjenci doświadczają poczucia nierealności siebie (depersonalizacja) lub świata zewnętrznego (derealizacja). Leczenie tego zaburzenia może być wyzwaniem, ale odpowiednie podejście terapeutyczne może znacząco poprawić jakość życia pacjentów i prowadzić do ustąpienia objawów.12

Choć nie istnieje jeden uniwersalny sposób leczenia zaburzenia depersonalizacji i derealizacji, wielu pacjentów osiąga pełną remisję przy zastosowaniu odpowiednich metod terapeutycznych. U niektórych osób objawy ustępują samoistnie, bez formalnego leczenia, ale większość pacjentów wymaga ukierunkowanego, spersonalizowanego podejścia terapeutycznego.34

Psychoterapia jako główna metoda leczenia

Psychoterapia stanowi podstawę leczenia zaburzenia depersonalizacji i derealizacji. Jest to główna i najskuteczniejsza forma interwencji, która powinna znajdować się w centrum wielowymiarowego planu terapeutycznego.56 Do najczęściej stosowanych form psychoterapii w leczeniu DPDR należą:

  • Terapia poznawczo-behawioralna (CBT) – pomaga pacjentom zidentyfikować i zmienić negatywne wzorce myślenia oraz zachowania związane z objawami depersonalizacji i derealizacji. CBT uczy strategie blokowania obsesyjnego myślenia o nierealnym stanie bycia oraz techniki odwracające uwagę od objawów.78
  • Terapia psychodynamiczna – koncentruje się na pomaganiu pacjentom w przepracowywaniu nierozwiązanych konfliktów wewnętrznych, negatywnych uczuć i doświadczeń, od których czują, że muszą się oderwać.910
  • Terapia dialektyczno-behawioralna (DBT) – szczególnie korzystna dla pacjentów, którzy intensywnie doświadczają emocji. Łączy techniki mindfulness i filozofię akceptacji z narzędziami poznawczo-behawioralnymi.1112
  • Terapia odwrażliwiania za pomocą ruchu gałek ocznych (EMDR) – opracowana specjalnie dla osób z zaburzeniami związanymi z traumą, pomaga bezpiecznie przetwarzać bolesne wspomnienia, myśli i uczucia.813

W trakcie psychoterapii pacjenci uczą się:14

  • Zrozumienia przyczyn występowania depersonalizacji i derealizacji
  • Technik odwracających uwagę od objawów i łączących z własnym światem i uczuciami
  • Strategii radzenia sobie z sytuacjami stresowymi i okresami ekstremalnego stresu
  • Przepracowywania emocji związanych z doświadczoną traumą
  • Identyfikacji i leczenia współwystępujących zaburzeń psychicznych, takich jak lęk czy depresja

Techniki uziemiające i mindfulness

Ważnym elementem leczenia są techniki uziemiające (grounding), które pomagają pacjentom poczuć się bardziej połączonymi z rzeczywistością. Wykorzystują one pięć zmysłów (słuch, dotyk, węch, smak i wzrok), aby pomóc osobom z DPDR odzyskać poczucie łączności z sobą i światem.910

Praktyki mindfulness i techniki redukcji stresu mogą być szczególnie korzystne w zarządzaniu objawami depersonalizacji i derealizacji:1516

  • Medytacja uważności
  • Ćwiczenia głębokiego oddychania
  • Progresywna relaksacja mięśni
  • Joga i tai chi

Te praktyki pomagają pacjentom rozwijać świadomość chwili obecnej, regulować emocje i budować poczucie bycia „tu i teraz”.17

Farmakoterapia w leczeniu DPDR

Aktualnie nie istnieje lek zatwierdzony specyficznie do leczenia zaburzenia depersonalizacji i derealizacji. Badania nad skutecznością farmakoterapii w leczeniu DPDR dają niejednoznaczne wyniki.56 Niemniej jednak, leki mogą być stosowane do leczenia określonych objawów lub współwystępujących zaburzeń psychicznych, takich jak depresja, lęk czy zaburzenia paniczne.1

Kategorie leków najczęściej przepisywanych pacjentom z DPDR to:118

  • Selektywne inhibitory wychwytu zwrotnego serotoniny (SSRI) – takie jak fluoksetyna (Prozac), sertralina czy citalopram, mogą pomóc w leczeniu współistniejącej depresji i lęku, jednak same w sobie mają ograniczoną skuteczność w leczeniu objawów depersonalizacji
  • Leki przeciwlękowe – w tym benzodiazepiny jak klonazepam, mogą być pomocne, choć należy zachować ostrożność ze względu na ryzyko uzależnienia
  • Leki stabilizujące nastrój – szczególnie lamotrygina, która w połączeniu z lekami SSRI wykazała pewną skuteczność w badaniach klinicznych
  • Leki przeciwpsychotyczne – mogą być stosowane w celu stabilizacji nastroju i łagodzenia objawów stresu

Obiecujące wyniki w badaniach wykazała również kombinacja lamotryginy z selektywnym inhibitorem wychwytu zwrotnego serotoniny. Lamotrygina powinna być wprowadzana stopniowo, rozpoczynając od dawki 25 mg/dobę, z powolnym zwiększaniem dawki co dwa tygodnie.1819

Warto podkreślić, że niektóre leki przeciwlękowe mogą nasilać objawy depersonalizacji lub derealizacji, dlatego lekarze powinni uważnie monitorować ich stosowanie.20

Inne metody terapeutyczne

W leczeniu zaburzenia depersonalizacji i derealizacji mogą być stosowane również inne metody terapeutyczne:2122

  • Powtarzalna przezczaszkowa stymulacja magnetyczna (rTMS) – badania wykazały, że rTMS stosowana w obszarze połączenia skroniowo-ciemieniowego (TPJ) może przynieść poprawę u około 50% pacjentów po trzech tygodniach leczenia, a u 68% pacjentów po sześciu tygodniach
  • Podejście holistyczne – obejmujące terapię muzyką i sztuką, akupunkturę, biofeedback oraz inne techniki wspomagające zarządzanie stresem i promujące uważność
  • Terapia akceptacji i zaangażowania (ACT) – uczy pacjentów akceptacji objawów i podejmowania działań zgodnych z własnymi wartościami

Poziomy i formy opieki terapeutycznej

W zależności od nasilenia objawów i indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta, leczenie zaburzenia depersonalizacji i derealizacji może odbywać się na różnych poziomach opieki:2324

Leczenie ambulatoryjne

Dla pacjentów z łagodnymi do umiarkowanych objawami, którzy mogą funkcjonować w codziennym życiu, odpowiednie może być leczenie ambulatoryjne:23

  • Indywidualna psychoterapia – regularne sesje z psychoterapeutą, zazwyczaj raz w tygodniu
  • Programy intensywnej opieki ambulatoryjnej (IOP) – oferują strukturalną terapię bez konieczności pozostawania w placówce całodobowo
  • Programy częściowej hospitalizacji (PHP) – zapewniają intensywne wsparcie terapeutyczne bez konieczności nocowania w placówce

Leczenie stacjonarne

Dla pacjentów z cięższymi objawami, którzy wymagają bardziej intensywnej opieki, zalecane może być leczenie stacjonarne:2526

  • Programy stacjonarne – zapewniają strukturyzowane środowisko terapeutyczne i całodobowe wsparcie
  • Hospitalizacja – dla pacjentów wymagających najbardziej intensywnej opieki i nadzoru

Leczenie stacjonarne oferuje bezpieczne i wspierające środowisko, w którym pacjenci mogą w pełni skoncentrować się na procesie zdrowienia. Zapewnia również kompleksową diagnozę, spersonalizowany plan leczenia, zarządzanie lekami w przypadku współwystępujących zaburzeń oraz holistyczne podejście do zdrowia, w tym odpowiednią dietę i ćwiczenia fizyczne.25

Podejście zintegrowane w leczeniu zaburzeń współwystępujących

Zaburzenie depersonalizacji i derealizacji często współwystępuje z innymi zaburzeniami psychicznymi, takimi jak depresja, lęk, zaburzenie stresowe pourazowe (PTSD) czy zaburzenia używania substancji. Skuteczne leczenie DPDR wymaga zintegrowanego podejścia, które uwzględnia wszystkie współwystępujące stany.827

Leczenie współwystępujących zaburzeń może znacząco wpłynąć na częstotliwość i intensywność objawów depersonalizacji i derealizacji. Na przykład, leczenie współistniejącej depresji lub lęku może pośrednio zmniejszyć objawy DPDR.15

Efektywność leczenia i rokowania

Rokowania dla pacjentów z zaburzeniem depersonalizacji i derealizacji są generalnie pozytywne, szczególnie przy wczesnym rozpoznaniu i leczeniu. Wiele osób uzyskuje znaczącą poprawę lub całkowitą remisję objawów dzięki odpowiedniej terapii.134

Badania wykazują, że:2829

  • Pacjenci często zaczynają obserwować poprawę w zakresie objawów w ciągu kilku miesięcy od rozpoczęcia leczenia
  • W badaniu Hunter i wsp. (2005) pacjenci, którzy otrzymali średnio 13 sesji terapii poznawczo-behawioralnej, wykazali redukcję poziomów dysocjacji, depersonalizacji, lęku i depresji, a 29% nie spełniało już kryteriów diagnostycznych po zakończeniu leczenia
  • Poprawa utrzymywała się w ciągu kolejnych 6 miesięcy po zakończeniu terapii

Czynniki, które mogą wpływać na skuteczność leczenia, to:3028

  • Wczesne rozpoznanie i rozpoczęcie leczenia
  • Kompleksowe podejście terapeutyczne łączące różne metody
  • Skuteczne leczenie współwystępujących zaburzeń psychicznych
  • Regularne wizyty u psychologa i okresowe konsultacje z psychiatrą
  • Dostosowanie planu leczenia do indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta

Sama diagnoza może mieć efekt terapeutyczny, ponieważ daje pacjentom pewność, że ich objawy są częścią rozpoznawalnego zaburzenia psychicznego, a nie unikalnym doświadczeniem.3132

Wskazówki dla pacjentów i ich rodzin

Dla osób z zaburzeniem depersonalizacji i derealizacji oraz ich rodzin, następujące wskazówki mogą być pomocne w radzeniu sobie z tym zaburzeniem:3334

Wskazówki dla pacjentów

  • Realizuj plan leczenia – konsekwentne stosowanie się do zaleceń terapeutycznych może zwiększyć szanse na skuteczne opanowanie objawów
  • Zdobywaj wiedzę o zaburzeniu – zrozumienie przyczyn i mechanizmów depersonalizacji i derealizacji może pomóc w redukcji lęku związanego z tymi objawami
  • Ćwicz techniki uziemiające – regularne praktykowanie technik uziemiających może pomóc w przywróceniu poczucia łączności z rzeczywistością podczas epizodów
  • Utrzymuj zdrowy styl życia – regularna aktywność fizyczna, zbilansowana dieta i odpowiednia ilość snu mogą pozytywnie wpływać na zdrowie psychiczne
  • Korzystaj z wsparcia społecznego – utrzymywanie kontaktu z bliskimi osobami może zapewnić wsparcie emocjonalne i zmniejszyć poczucie izolacji

Wskazówki dla rodzin

  • Udzielaj wsparcia – słuchaj i zapewniaj przestrzeń pozbawioną osądzania, w której bliska osoba może dzielić się swoimi doświadczeniami
  • Zachęcaj do leczenia – wspieraj bliską osobę w poszukiwaniu i przestrzeganiu leczenia
  • Edukuj się – zrozumienie zaburzenia depersonalizacji i derealizacji może pomóc w zapewnieniu lepszego wsparcia i zmniejszeniu nieporozumień
  • Dbaj o własne zdrowie psychiczne – zapewnianie wsparcia może być wyczerpujące, dlatego ważne jest, aby zadbać również o własne potrzeby

Kierunki badań i przyszłość leczenia DPDR

Badania nad zaburzeniem depersonalizacji i derealizacji są nadal w toku, a naukowcy poszukują nowych, skuteczniejszych metod leczenia.3536

Przyszłe kierunki badań obejmują:3736

  • Lepsze zrozumienie ścieżek przyczynowych leżących u podstaw doświadczeń depersonalizacji i derealizacji
  • Badanie DPDR jako doświadczenia odrębnego od innych stanów klinicznych
  • Opracowanie wiarygodnych metod indukcji doświadczeń depersonalizacji i derealizacji do badań u osób zdrowych psychicznie
  • Dalsze rozwijanie metod, które rzetelnie uchwycą obiektywne korelaty DPDR w organizmie ludzkim w połączeniu z samooceną
  • Badanie potencjalnej skuteczności lamotryginy, innych leków przeciwdrgawkowych, SSRI, antagonistów opiatów i powtarzalnej przezczaszkowej stymulacji magnetycznej (rTMS)

Podejście terapeutyczne do zaburzenia depersonalizacji i derealizacji prawdopodobnie będzie ewoluować wraz z postępem badań, oferując pacjentom coraz skuteczniejsze metody leczenia.35

Kluczowe wydaje się zintegrowane podejście łączące różne metody terapeutyczne, dostosowane do indywidualnych potrzeb każdego pacjenta. Takie kompleksowe podejście daje największe szanse na skuteczne opanowanie objawów i poprawę jakości życia osób cierpiących na zaburzenie depersonalizacji i derealizacji.38

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  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder: Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9791-depersonalization-derealization-disorder
    Depersonalization-derealization disorder is a mental health condition where you feel disconnected from your body, your feelings and your environment. Treatment may include a combination of psychotherapy and medication. […] Researchers still aren’t sure about the best way to treat depersonalization-derealization disorder. When considering treatment options, your provider will talk with you about your medical history, your symptoms and treatment goals. They may recommend medication and talk therapy (psychotherapy) like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or eye movement desensitization processing (commonly called EMDR). […] Though talk therapy is the best treatment, your mental healthcare provider may recommend a medication (or combination of medications) as part of your treatment, like: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), Anti-anxiety medications, Mood-stabilizing medications, Antipsychotic medications.
  • #2 Depersonalization-derealization disorder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depersonalization-derealization-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20352911
    Depersonalization-derealization disorder can be serious and may get in the way of your relationships and work. It also can disrupt other daily activities. The main treatment for depersonalization-derealization disorder is psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy. Sometimes medicines also are used. […] See a doctor if you have feelings of depersonalization or derealization that: Are disturbing you or are disrupting your emotions. Do not go away or keep coming back. Get in the way of work, relationships or daily activities. […] Symptoms of depersonalization-derealization disorder may be related to childhood trauma or other experiences or events that cause severe emotional stress or trauma.
  • #3 Derealization: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-derealization-overview
    Derealization Treatment […] Many people who have derealization recover fully, sometimes on their own. You can also learn how to manage episodes when they happen. Either way, you may find support from a mental health expert to be really helpful. Thats especially true if you also live with depression or anxiety. […] The gold-standard treatment for derealization is talk therapy. A mental health professional like a counselor or psychologist can help you: […] Learn more about derealization […] Keep yourself from obsessing about unreal experiences […] Ground yourself in reality using your five senses (for example, by playing loud music or holding something very cold). […] Address negative feelings and figure out the causes of your symptoms […] Talk about your feelings using specific words
  • #4 Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder | Co-Occuring Disorder Treatment
    https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/depersonalization-derealization-disorder/treatment/
    There is no cure for depersonalization derealization disorder, but treatment can reduce distressing symptoms and even lead to full remission of the disorder. […] Depersonalization disorder treatment typically involves using one or more therapeutic interventions to address different aspects of the disorder. Individual therapy is the primary depersonalization treatment, though medications are sometimes used in conjunction with therapy to treat the disorder. […] Therapy options include teletherapy, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. […] Antidepressant and antipsychotic medications may be prescribed to help with symptoms of depersonalization. […] Psychotherapy remains the primary and essential psychiatric intervention. This is especially true in the treatment of depersonalization-derealization disorder, which may not be fully treatable with any medication.
  • #5 Depersonalization-derealization disorder | Altru Health System
    https://www.altru.org/health-library/conditions/depersonalization-derealization-disorder
    Depersonalization-derealization disorder is mainly treated using talk therapy. But medicines may be added to your treatment plan sometimes. […] Talk therapy is the main treatment for depersonalization-derealization disorder. The goal is to control the symptoms to make them better or make them go away. Two types of talk therapy are cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy. […] No medicine has been proven to effectively treat depersonalization-derealization disorder. But medicines may be used to treat specific symptoms or treat depression and anxiety that often are related to the condition.
  • #6 STRESS AND TRAUMA: Psychotherapy and Pharmacotherapy for Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4204471/
    Currently, no pharmacological treatment has been found to reduce dissociation, per se. […] Psychotherapy is the cornerstone of a multidisciplinary treatment plan for DDD and other trauma-related disorders, and it must be the core interventional strategy; the mode of psychotherapy should be based on the individuals needs and may include some combination of various approaches based on the quality and acuity of the patients symptoms.
  • #7 Learn About Depersonalization and Derealization | Psychology Tools
    https://www.psychologytools.com/articles/learn-about-depersonalization-and-derealization
    Cognitive behavioral therapy is a helpful treatment for depersonalization and derealization. […] The psychological treatment for depersonalization and derealization that has the strongest research support is cognitive behavioral therapy. […] Ingredients of CBT treatment that are believed to be effective for depersonalization and derealization include developing a personalized model of your symptoms, self-monitoring to track changes in your symptoms, grounding strategies to bring you back to here-and-now awareness, learning about depersonalization, derealization, and how the brain and body respond to stress, experimenting with how you pay attention to your symptoms, challenging unhelpful or catastrophic thinking, using behavioral experiments to test your specific negative beliefs and assumptions, and developing a therapy blueprint. […] No specific medications are recommended for the treatment of depersonalization and derealization by bodies such as the UK National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) or the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
  • #8 Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder | Co-Occuring Disorder Treatment
    https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/depersonalization-derealization-disorder/treatment/
    Insight may be the most effective tool to treat depersonalization-derealization disorder, opening the door to once-blocked emotions. […] Individuals with depersonalization-derealization disorder usually respond well to CBT. […] This kind of behavioral therapy yields key insights and benefits for the treatment of depersonalization disorder. […] Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is another intervention developed specifically for people with trauma-related disorders. […] The best and most effective way to treat co-occurring depersonalization-derealization and substance use disorders is to use an integrated approach.
  • #9 Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder – Mental Health Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/dissociative-disorders/depersonalization-derealization-disorder
    Psychotherapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy, is often helpful. […] Various psychotherapy methods have been effective for some people. […] Techniques that can help include the following: Cognitive techniques can help block obsessive thinking about the unreal state of being. […] Behavioral techniques can help people become absorbed in tasks that distract them from the depersonalization. […] Grounding techniques use the five senses (hearing, touch, smell, taste, and sight) to help people feel more connected to themselves and the world. […] Psychodynamic techniques focus on helping people work through intolerable conflicts, negative feelings, and experiences from which people feel they must detach themselves. […] Moment-to-moment tracking and labeling of dissociation and affect (the outward expression of emotions and thoughts) teaches people to recognize and identify their feelings of dissociation.
  • #10 Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder – Psychiatric Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/psychiatric-disorders/dissociative-disorders/depersonalization-derealization-disorder
    Treatment of depersonalization/derealization disorder must address all stresses associated with onset of the disorder as well as earlier stresses (eg, childhood abuse or neglect), which may have predisposed patients to late onset of depersonalization and/or derealization. […] Various psychotherapies are successful for some patients: […] Cognitive techniques can help block obsessive thinking about the unreal state of being. […] Behavioral techniques can help patients engage in tasks that distract them from the depersonalization and derealization. […] Grounding techniques use the 5 senses (eg, by playing loud music or placing a piece of ice in the hand) to help patients feel more connected to themselves and the world and feel more real in the moment. […] Psychodynamic therapy helps patients deal with negative feelings, underlying conflicts, or experiences that make certain affects intolerable to the self and thus dissociated.
  • #11 Derealization Disorder Inpatient Treatment at Executive Rehab Center
    https://balancerehabclinic.com/derealization/
    Therapy for Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder While reflective thinking might lead to queries about what is genuine and real, the sensation that the self and the outside world arent real is frequently a dissociative response learned to dissociate from unpleasant or painful traumatic events. Any therapy treatment for the depersonalization-derealization condition should aim to help people reclaim their real emotional range, which often involves developing both safety and understanding. Psychotherapy can help you learn how to: Keep oneself from worrying about fictitious events. […] Use activities to keep yourself occupied. […] Using your 5 senses, anchor yourself in reality (for instance, by holding something cold or warm or laying loud music). […] Deal with your negative emotions and figure out whats causing your symptoms. […] Use specific words to express your sentiments. Symptoms of derealization and depersonalization can make a certain individual seem unreal. The self, mind, emotions, body, and the external world may all feel as if they dont exist, or as if they are distant or distorted at different moments. Any of these symptoms, to the extent that they are present, can indicate a depersonalization-derealization disorder. A therapist can utilize a depersonalization-derealization disorder test to identify the condition. While a specific test for symptoms, such as the structured clinical interview, may be employed, the Steinberg Depersonalization Questionnaire is the most common depersonalization disorder test. The Steinberg Derealization Questionnaire is a comparable derealization test. Teletherapy Patients are met with a professional therapist via teletherapy. The therapist will develop a specific treatment plan with the patient, helping him or her down the road to long-term recovery. More information on how to get started with teletherapy may be found here. Psychotherapy Psychotherapy is a broad term that refers to any type of talk therapy where a client expresses his or her feelings and thoughts to a therapist. While pharmacologic treatment of mental health issues has progressed significantly, psychotherapy is still the primary and most important psychiatric intervention. This is particularly true in the management of the depersonalization-derealization disorder, which may or may not be fully curable with medicines. One of the earliest types of therapy is psychodynamic therapy. Psychodynamic psychotherapy emphasizes going back in time to figure out what led an individual to feel and think the way they do. Someone with a depersonalization-derealization condition can begin to comprehend why they feel separated from reality and take measures to address this by making the underlying unconscious roots of emotional reactions more conscious and comprehendible. Insight is perhaps the most effective treatment for the depersonalization-derealization disease, allowing previously suppressed emotions to surface. People can begin to experience thoughts and emotions that they previously considered unpleasant and that caused their dissociation symptoms by deconstructing previously unconscious patterns of interacting with the world. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT is one of the most well-researched treatment interventions and is regarded as an evidence-based technique for the treatment of a wide range of psychiatric problems. It works by assisting individuals in recognizing cognitive distortions and unreasonable ideas. People can lessen or eliminate negative feelings and actions generated by these concepts by confronting and reframing them. CBT usually works successfully for people with the depersonalization-derealization disorder. Many of the symptoms include a cognitive component. Obsessive self- and world-reflection heighten emotions of disconnection. CBT can help individuals with depersonalization-derealization disorder evaluate and challenge thoughts that increase derealization, as well as develop breathing and grounding strategies to help them cope with disembodiment and other dissociative symptoms. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy One of the most common personality disorders, Borderline personality disorder (BPD), is a trauma-related illness that can be treated using dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). DBT blends mindfulness techniques and philosophy of acceptance with cognitive-behavioral tools and procedures. DBT assists people with backgrounds of abuse and trauma to explore emotional issues without shame or guilt, and to feel much more comfortable discussing what they feel and think, by moving away from the CBT method of classifying particular ideas or feelings as bad. DBT therapies aid in the development of distress tolerance and emotional regulation. For the management of depersonalization disorder, this type of behavioral therapy provides important insights and benefits. People who suffer from this dissociative condition have a tendency to distrust their own ideas and feelings, labeling them as negative. This skepticism is what makes people believe that their inner states, and even themselves, arent genuine. DBT can help individuals reconnect with themselves by teaching them to embrace their inner states. Individuals with depersonalization-derealization disorder can benefit from DBTs mindfulness, self-soothing, and breathing strategies which can help them reconcile with their body and the feelings of being in the moment. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Another technique designed expressly for patients with trauma-related problems is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Its purpose is to assist people in gently and safely processing unpleasant memories, ideas, and feelings that they have been denying or avoiding. Clients engage in EMDR by talking or thinking about painful memories while following back-and-forth audio or visual cue designed to assist their brains in reprocessing these events. While experts disagree on why this strategy works, research demonstrates that it is an effective treatment for persons who have experienced trauma, especially those who suffer from the depersonalization-derealization disorder. EMDR, like CBT, may help individuals change their mental processes, and it can do so in a manner that is supportive and founded on physical experience, just like DBT. Because this type of therapy focuses solely on trauma, it can assist those who have suppressed or avoided terrible memories in addressing them in a secure setting. Many persons who have derealization and depersonalization have had traumatic or non-traumatic events that prompted them to reject their emotions and conceal thoughts and memories. EMDR can help patients break past those defenses and reconnect with their emotions.
  • #12 Dissociative Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17749-dissociative-disorders
    Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): DBT is specially adapted for people who experience emotions very intensely. The main goal is to strike a balance between validation (acceptance) of who you are and your challenges and the benefits of change. Your therapist will help you learn new skills to improve emotion regulation. […] Therapy can be difficult, as it involves remembering and learning to deal with past trauma. But it can significantly help your symptoms in the long term. […] Other therapies that can help include: […] Hypnosis: Hypnosis (hypnotherapy) is a state of deep relaxation and focused concentration. When you’re under hypnosis, this intense level of concentration and focus allows you to ignore ordinary distractions and be more open to guided suggestions to make changes to improve your health.
  • #13 Dissociative disorders – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/dissociative-disorders/
    Many people with a dissociative disorder make a full recovery with treatment and support. […] Talking therapies are often recommended for dissociative disorders. […] The aim of talking therapies such as counselling or psychotherapy is to help you cope with the underlying cause of your symptoms, and to learn and practise techniques to manage the periods of feeling disconnected. […] Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychological treatment that can help reduce the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is sometimes used to treat dissociative disorders. […] There’s no specific medicine to treat dissociation, but medicines like antidepressants may be prescribed to treat associated conditions like depression, anxiety and panic attacks.
  • #14 Depersonalization-derealization disorder // Middlesex Health
    https://middlesexhealth.org/learning-center/diseases-and-conditions/depersonalization-derealization-disorder
    Depersonalization-derealization disorder is mainly treated using talk therapy. But medicines may be added to your treatment plan sometimes. […] Talk therapy is the main treatment for depersonalization-derealization disorder. The goal is to control the symptoms to make them better or make them go away. Two types of talk therapy are cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy. […] Talk therapy can help you: Learn why depersonalization and derealization occur. Learn techniques that take your mind off your symptoms and connect you to your world and feelings. Learn coping strategies to deal with stressful situations and times of extreme stress. Talk about the emotions related to past trauma that you’ve experienced. Learn about other mental health conditions you may have, such as anxiety or depression. […] No medicine has been proven to effectively treat depersonalization-derealization disorder. But medicines may be used to treat specific symptoms or treat depression and anxiety that often are related to the condition.
  • #15 Depersonalization: Everything You Need to Know | Columbia University Irving Medical Center
    https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/depersonalization-everything-you-need-know
    Treatments for depersonalization-derealization disorders mainly involve psychotherapy or talk therapy and certain medications, including antidepressants and mood stabilizers. […] Mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can help manage anxiety and stress, which can contribute to depersonalization-derealization symptoms. […] If you or a loved one is suffering or struggling with this or any other mental health issues, we are here to help, says Ambrose. It is very common for individuals with DDD to have another mental health condition. Treating the comorbid conditions may also help with DDDs frequency and intensity of the core symptoms.
  • #16 Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder Treatment Facility Near MeA Mission For Michael
    https://amfmtreatment.com/depression-treatment/depersonalization-derealization/
    Depersonalization-derealization disorder is a mental health condition that can cause significant distress and impairment in your daily life. […] DPDR treatment focuses on helping you restore your sense of reality and feeling connecting to yourself and the world around you. Treatment approaches can vary, allowing mental health professionals to provide personalized care. […] DPDR therapy programs can use alternative therapeutic approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapies. […] Your therapist may also work with you to practice and implement grounding techniques and stress reduction practices into your routine. […] There are several options of medication for depersonalization disorder, including SSRI’s and antianxiety disorders. […] Treatment for DPDR typically involves psychotherapy, with approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) aimed at managing symptoms and addressing underlying causes.
  • #17 Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder Treatment Facility Near MeA Mission For Michael
    https://amfmtreatment.com/depression-treatment/depersonalization-derealization/
    The happenings of a DPDR treatment program are dependent on the level of care you receive. Generally, depersonalization-derealization disorder treatment provides you with structured care, aimed to help you learn strategies to manage your detachment and dissociative symptoms. […] Your therapy sessions will focus on helping you learn mindfulness, grounding, and emotion regulation skills so that you can cope with your symptoms. […] Therapies like CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy can be used to address the root cause of your DPDR, allowing for a deeper healing experience. […] For some, managing depersonalization-derealization disorder symptoms include the use of medication management services. […] CBT for depersonalization can help you identify negative thought patterns that are linked to your distressing symptoms.
  • #18 Understanding and treating depersonalisation disorder | Advances in Psychiatric Treatment | Cambridge Core
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/advances-in-psychiatric-treatment/article/understanding-and-treating-depersonalisation-disorder/6216AE06994D1094873145C016CC1F57
    However, there is some evidence to support the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, and more recently the combination of lamotrigine and an SSRI has shown promise. […] Our own clinical experience has been that many patients referred to our clinic have been on an SSRI for prolonged periods with little or no impact on their symptoms, and this has led us to investigate other potential pharmacotherapies, in particular the anticonvulsant lamotrigine. […] Lamotrigine should be initiated at a starting dose of 25 mg/day, with the dose gradually increased at fortnightly intervals. […] When lamotrigine cannot be tolerated or is ineffective, clonazepam may be useful, although the usual caveats regarding prescription of benzodiazepines apply. […] As with pharmacotherapy, there is no recognised psychological treatment for depersonalisation.
  • #19 Depersonalization-derealization disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Depersonalization-derealization_disorder
    An open study of cognitive behavioral therapy has aimed to help patients reinterpret their symptoms in a nonthreatening way, leading to an improvement on several standardized measures. A standardized treatment for DPDR based on cognitive behavioral principles was published in the Netherlands in 2011. […] Tentative evidence supports the use of opioid antagonists (naloxone) and other medications like benzodiazepines or methylphenidate. Evidence suggests the beneficial use of lamotrigine adjunct to an SSRI but not as monotherapy. A combination of an SSRI and a benzodiazepine has been proposed to be useful for DPDR patients with anxiety. Modafinil used alone has been reported to be effective in a subgroup of individuals with depersonalization disorder (those who have attentional impairments, under-arousal and hypersomnia). However, clinical trials have not been conducted.
  • #20 Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder – Mental Health Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/dissociative-disorders/depersonalization-derealization-disorder
    Various medications have been used to treat depersonalization/derealization disorder, but none have proven to be effective. Antianxiety medications and antidepressants sometimes help, mainly by relieving anxiety or depression, which are present in many people with depersonalization/derealization disorder. However, antianxiety medications may also increase depersonalization or derealization, so doctors carefully monitor use of these medications.
  • #21 Depersonalization-derealization disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Depersonalization-derealization_disorder
    Some studies have found repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to be helpful. One study examined 12 patients with DPDR that were treated with right temporoparietal junction (TPJ) rTMS and found that 50% showed improvement after three weeks of treatment. Five of the participants received an additional three weeks of treatment and reported overall a 68% improvement in their symptoms. Treating patients with rTMS specifically at the TPJ may be an alternative treatment.
  • #22 Omaha Depersonalization Disorder Treatment: Derealization Therapy
    https://brainhealthne.com/depersonalization-derealization-disorder/
    Depersonalization/derealization disorder (DPDR) is a condition where individuals feel detached from their own thoughts, body, or surroundings, creating a sense of unreality. […] At Brain Health Nebraska, we specialize in providing depersonalization disorder treatments and derealization therapies for Omaha residents living with this disorder. […] TMS has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including DPDR, by targeting the areas of the brain involved in emotional regulation and self-awareness. […] TMS is particularly beneficial for those who have not found relief through traditional depersonalization disorder treatments in Omaha such as talk therapy or medication. […] The experts at Brain Health Nebraska offer TMS as a leading therapy for DPDR because of its ability to provide lasting results without the side effects commonly associated with other treatments.
  • #23 Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder Treatment Facility Near MeA Mission For Michael
    https://amfmtreatment.com/depression-treatment/depersonalization-derealization/
    DBT for derealization and depersonalization can help you learn various ways of coping with DBDR symptoms. […] A Mission For Michael offers comprehensive and holistic approaches to depersonalization-derealization recovery programs. […] Our depersonalization disorder treatment programs are tailored to each individual, ensuring that you learn about coping with DPDR symptoms as well as getting to the root cause of your symptoms. […] Day treatment programs, also known as Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs), can provide structured therapeutic support without requiring overnight stays. […] Residential and inpatient depersonalization treatments provide you with access to professional support and guidance around the clock. […] Outpatient counseling for dissociative disorder can provide you with flexible support while you work, attend school, and attend to other responsibilities. […] Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) are intensive treatment options in an outpatient setting.
  • #24 Derealization Disorder Inpatient Treatment at Executive Rehab Center
    https://balancerehabclinic.com/derealization/
    Levels Of Treatment for DPDR Disorder While each person diagnosed with depersonalization/derealization disease should have a unique treatment plan, there are several common therapy procedures to follow at a depersonalization treatment center, including: Treatment in a residential facility. The greatest location for your loved one to heal is in a treatment and rehabilitation facility. Inpatient treatment centers provide a thorough diagnosis, a personalized treatment plan, medications for any co-occurring disorders, nutrition and exercise, and holistic healing approaches. Therapy. Individuals can learn to overcome their dysfunctional thinking and behavior patterns via psychodynamic therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Family therapy, in addition to personal therapy, might be effective. Medications. While antidepressant or antianxiety medications are not indicated for depersonalization/derealization conditions on their own, most people who suffer from it also have a co-occurring disorder for which antidepressant or antianxiety medications may be prescribed. Holistic. Individuals suffering from depersonalization/derealization disorder have found holistic therapeutic methods to be effective. Meditation, tai chi, yoga, music, acupuncture, and art therapy all serve to create a grounded state of consciousness, which is beneficial in treatment.
  • #25 Depersonalization Derealization Disorder Treatment Center – BrightQuest
    https://www.brightquest.com/depersonalization-derealization-disorder/depersonalization-derealization-disorder-treatment-center/
    A comprehensive treatment plan will outline the required steps needed to complete treatment and the tools necessary to take outside of treatment. Our compassionate team at BrightQuest will help your loved one work toward these depersonalization/derealization disorder goals: Understanding triggers and learning coping mechanisms, Reducing or eliminating dissociative states, Improving relationships, Addressing other co-occurring mental health disorders. […] While each individual diagnosed with depersonalization/derealization disorder should have a tailored treatment plan there are standard steps in treating this mental health disorder such as: Residential Treatment. The best place for your loved one to recover is in a setting designed for treatment and recovery. Residential treatment centers offer a proper diagnosis, a tailored treatment plan, administering of medication for any co-occurring disorders, exercise and nutrition, and holistic approaches to healing. Therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy can help the individual learn to break their dysfunctional patterns of thinking and acting. In addition to individual therapy, family therapy can also be beneficial. Medications. While medications are not recommended for depersonalization/derealization disorder on its own, many suffering also have a co-occurring disorder where antianxiety or antidepressant medications may be administered. Holistic. Holistic healing methods have been proven successful in helping individuals recover from depersonalization/derealization disorder. Creating a grounded sense of consciousness practices like meditation, yoga, tai chi, acupuncture, music and art therapy are helpful in treatment.
  • #26 Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder Treatment Facility in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    https://sylviabrafman.com/mental-health-treatments/dissociative-identity-disorder/depersonalization-derealization/
    There are many ways to treat DPDR depending on the severity of your condition and its impact on your life. We want to support you in whatever program is the best fit for you. If you are wondering what programs will best suit your needs, contact The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center for a free mental health assessment. […] Inpatient and residential treatment programs are the most intensive option when treating DPDR. This form of treatment is recommended for those with severe cases of DPDR and who need constant support and supervision. There is no set duration for residential programs. Talk therapy, psychoeducation, skill-building, medication management, and even family counseling are types of therapy frequently utilized in inpatient programs. […] At The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Treatment Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, our team of dedicated professionals is ready to guide you. We offer mental health treatment for DPDR and a variety of other treatments programs, each uniquely designed to meet your needs.
  • #27 Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder Treatment
    https://www.recoverykansascity.com/mental-health/depersonalization-derealization-disorder/
    When treating Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder, it is important also to treat any other symptoms that are happening, such as substance abuse. Treating both diagnoses will give someone a better chance of recovery and symptom management moving forward. […] If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with or experiencing the symptoms of Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder, The Recovery Village Kansas City offers treatment for those with or without co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
  • #28 Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder: Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9791-depersonalization-derealization-disorder
    With treatment, people commonly start to see an improvement in their symptoms within a few months. […] If you have lasting symptoms of depersonalization-derealization disorder, your priority should be to seek treatment from a mental healthcare professional. You’ll likely need several visits initially, and then regular follow-ups with a psychologist and occasional follow-ups with a psychiatrist. Your psychiatrist help find the right treatment for your specific situation and ensure that the side effects are manageable. Your psychologist will use talk therapy to teach you skills to cope with your symptoms and gain insight into your symptom triggers.
  • #29 Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder – DSM-5 Code 300.6
    https://traumadissociation.com/depersonalization
    Treatments that have been suggested include psychotherapy, for example cognitive and behavioral therapy, and psychoanalysis, and psychiatric medication. […] Only limited information is available about the effectiveness of treatments for Depersonalization/Derealization disorder and no clear evidence-based treatment was found in recent research, although this was mostly due to a lack of randomized clinical trials. […] Hunter et al. (2005) published a study of 21 patients who received an average of 13 sessions of psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), finding patients had reductions in their levels of dissociation, depersonalization, anxiety, and depression, with 29% no longer meeting the diagnostic criteria after treatment. […] Improvements continued during the following 6-months.
  • #30 7.2: Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder – Social Sci LibreTexts
    https://socialsci.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Psychology/Psychological_Disorders/Essentials_of_Abnormal_Psychology_(Bridley_and_Daffin)/07%3A_Dissociative_Disorders/7.02%3A_Depersonalization_Derealization_Disorder
    Depersonalization/derealization disorder symptoms generally occur for an extensive period of time before the individual seeks out treatment. […] Because of this, there is some evidence to support that the diagnosis alone is effective in reducing symptom intensity, as it also relieves the individuals anxiety surrounding the baffling nature of the symptoms (Medford, Sierra, Baker, David, 2005). […] Due to the high comorbidity of depersonalization/derealization disorder and anxiety/depression, the goal of treatment is often alleviating these secondary mental health symptoms related to the depersonalization/derealization symptoms. […] While there has been some evidence to suggest treatment with an SSRI is effective in improving mood, the evidence for a combined treatment method of psychopharmacological and psychological treatment is even more compelling (Medford, Sierra, Baker, David, 2005).
  • #31 Depersonalization / Derealization Disorder | Psychology Today
    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/depersonalizationderealization-disorder
    Interestingly, clinicians find that diagnosing the disorder can have therapeutic effects by itself. It reassures patients that their symptoms are a recognizable phenomenon and that they are not unique in experiencing them. […] Early clinical trials suggest that drug therapy combining the anticonvulsant drug lamotrigine with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) may benefit patients with DP/DR. Several studies have shown that the SSRIs alone have little to no effect on depersonalization symptoms.
  • #32 Depersonalization-derealization disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Depersonalization-derealization_disorder
    Treatment of DPDR is often difficult and refractory. Some clinicians speculate that this could be due to a delay in diagnosis by which point symptoms tend to be constant and less responsive to treatment. Additionally, symptoms tend to overlap with other diagnoses. Some results have been promising, but are hard to evaluate with confidence due to the small size of trials. However, recognizing and diagnosing the condition may in itself have therapeutic benefits, considering many patients express their problems as baffling and unique to them, but are not, in fact, and are recognized and described by psychiatry. However, symptoms are often transient and can remit on their own without treatment. […] Treatment is primarily pharmacological. Self-hypnosis training can be helpful and entails training patients to induce dissociative symptoms and respond in an alternative manner. Psychoeducation involves counseling regarding the disorder, reassurance, and emphasis on DPDR as a perceptual disturbance rather than a true physical experience. Clinical pharmacotherapy research continues to explore a number of possible options, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), benzodiazepines, stimulants and opioid antagonists (ex: naltrexone).
  • #33 Depersonalization-derealization disorder – Hancock Health
    https://www.hancockhealth.org/mayo-health-library/depersonalization-derealization-disorder/
    Follow your treatment plan. Talk therapy may involve practicing certain techniques daily to help reduce or stop the feelings of depersonalization and derealization. Seeking treatment early can make it more likely that you’ll use these techniques successfully. […] Learn about the condition. Books and internet resources are available that talk about why depersonalization and derealization occur and how to cope. Ask your mental health professional to suggest educational materials and resources. […] You’re likely to start by first seeing your primary care doctor or another primary care professional. It may be suggested that you see a doctor who specializes in brain and nervous system conditions, also known as a neurologist. Or you may see a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, also known as a psychiatrist.
  • #34 A Guide to Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder (DDD)
    https://granitehillshospital.com/blog/a-guide-to-depersonalization-derealization-disorder/
    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. […] Practical Advice for Managing DDD […] Seek Professional Help: A mental health professional can provide a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment. […] Educate Yourself: Understanding the disorder can reduce fear and enable better management. […] Practice Grounding Techniques: Techniques like focusing on sensory details can help anchor you in reality. […] For family members […] Be Supportive: Listen and provide a non-judgmental space for your loved one to express their experiences.
  • #35 The Treatment of Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder: A Systematic Review – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37431255/
    Depersonalization-derealization disorder (DPD) is characterized by persistent or recurrent experiences of detachment from oneself and surroundings, as well as a sense of unreality. […] Considering the inadequacy of current research on treatment, we performed a systematic review of the available pharmacotherapies, neuromodulations, and psychotherapies for DPD. […] We identified 30 methods that have been applied independently or in combination to treat DPD since 1955. […] The results suggest that a series of treatments, such as pharmacotherapies, neuromodulation, and psychotherapies, could be considered in combination. […] However, the quality and quantity of studies were generally low considering the high prevalence of DPD. […] The review concludes with suggestions for future research and an urgent call for more high-quality research.
  • #36 Evidence-based treatment for Depersonalisation-derealisation Disorder (DPRD) | BMC Psychology | Full Text
    https://bmcpsychology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/2050-7283-1-20
    Psychotherapy case reports have indicated that psychodynamic psychotherapy and hypnosis-based treatment, combined with eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), may also be useful. […] The literature has shown that depersonalisation symptoms can be induced by serotonin receptor agonists such as meta-chlorophenylpiperazine, and by substances which act as serotonin agonists such as cannabis, lysergic acid diethylamide, and ecstasy. […] Given the limited data available, there is arguably a need for additional research on lamotrigine, other anticonvulsants, SSRIs, opiate antagonists, and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). […] There is inconsistent evidence to support the efficacy of lamotrigine in DPRD, with no evidence to support the efficacy of fluoxetine and biofeedback. Given the limited data available, further exploration of lamotrigine, other anticonvulsants, SSRIs, opiate antagonists, and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in larger trials may be useful. Indeed, a great deal of further research on the pathogenesis and treatment of depersonalisation-derealisation disorder is required.
  • #37 Frontiers | Past and Future Explanations for Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder: A Role for Predictive Coding
    https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/human-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2022.744487/full
    Depersonalization (DP) and derealization (DR) refer to states of dissociation in which one feels a sense of alienation in relation to one’s self and environment, respectively. […] Whilst transient episodes often diminish without treatment, chronic experiences of DP and DR may last for years, with common treatments lacking a strong evidence base for their efficacy. […] As evidence of the efficacy of current treatment remains limited, we suggest treatment protocols could be improved by: 1. Developing a deeper understanding of the causal pathways underlying DP and DR experiences. 2. Examining DP and DR in isolation as experiences separate from other clinical conditions. 3. Developing reliable methods with which to induce experiences of DP and DR for investigation in psychologically normal individuals. 4. Further developing methods that reliably capture the objective correlates of DP and DR within the human body in conjunction with self-report.
  • #38 Evidence-based treatment for Depersonalisation-derealisation Disorder (DPRD) | BMC Psychology | Full Text
    https://bmcpsychology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/2050-7283-1-20
    Depersonalisation-derealisation disorder (DPRD) is a distressing and impairing condition with a pathophysiology that is not well understood. […] A systematic review of randomised controlled pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy trials is timely. […] The limited data from randomised controlled trials on the pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy of DPRD demonstrates inconsistent evidence for the efficacy of lamotrigine, and no efficacy for other interventions. Additional research on this disorder is needed. […] Historical reports of the use of barbiturates, amphetamines and antipsychotics in the treatment of DPRD do not suggest any consistent benefit. […] Subsequent single case reports suggest potential efficacy for a wide variety of treatments including benzodiazepines, atypical neuroleptic medications, tricyclic anti-depressants, drugs with serotonergic activity, SNRIs, a combination of benzodiazepines and serotonergic activity drugs, anti-convulsants, and opiate antagonists.