Treatment for Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder

Although depersonalization-derealization disorder (DPDR) doesn’t have a cure, effective treatments can help alleviate distressing symptoms and, in some cases, lead to complete remission. This disorder, classified as a dissociative condition, has gained better understanding in recent years, particularly regarding its links to trauma. Treatment for DPDR often involves therapy, medication, or a combination of both. While derealization is a distinct symptom, it is typically addressed alongside depersonalization in the treatment process.

Key Takeaways

• DPDR treatment primarily involves therapy, with medications used when necessary.
• SSRIs and antipsychotics do not cure DPDR but help manage symptoms.
• Therapy options include psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
• Co-occurring disorders like anxiety and depression are common alongside DPDR.
• Substance abuse is prevalent among those with depersonalization-derealization disorder.

Medications for DPDR

Though there is no cure for depersonalization-derealization disorder, medications can help control its symptoms. People experiencing DPDR should consult with healthcare professionals to begin treatment and regain a sense of normalcy. Antidepressants and antipsychotics are sometimes prescribed to alleviate symptoms.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Individuals with dissociative disorders often have other mental health conditions, with depression being one of the most common. SSRIs, a class of antidepressants, are frequently used to treat depression alongside DPDR. SSRIs such as sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), and citalopram (Celexa) can help with symptoms of depersonalization, including emotional numbness and a sense of detachment. SSRIs can also be effective in treating anxiety, which often co-occurs with DPDR. In some cases, combining SSRIs with mood stabilizers like lamotrigine can be particularly helpful for people with dissociative disorders.

Antipsychotic Medications

Although DPDR is not a psychotic disorder, antipsychotic medications can help manage symptoms. These medications can aid in stabilizing mood, reducing anxiety, and improving emotional range. They may also help mitigate the sense of unreality associated with depersonalization and derealization.

Therapy for DPDR

Therapeutic intervention plays a crucial role in treating depersonalization-derealization disorder. Therapy focuses on helping individuals reconnect with their emotions and the external world, a process often rooted in trauma healing.

Teletherapy

Teletherapy offers patients access to licensed therapists through virtual platforms. It allows for personalized treatment plans and provides flexibility, making it easier for individuals to receive care from the comfort of their homes.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a broad term encompassing various therapeutic approaches where individuals explore their thoughts and feelings. While medication plays a key role, psychotherapy remains central to treating DPDR. Psychodynamic therapy, an older form of psychotherapy, can be particularly useful for exploring unconscious sources of dissociative symptoms. By gaining insight into the trauma or emotional experiences that led to depersonalization, individuals can start to reconnect with their emotions and reality.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely recognized therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns. For people with DPDR, CBT can be effective in addressing obsessive thinking about oneself or the world that exacerbates feelings of detachment. By rethinking these cognitive distortions, individuals can reduce the intensity of their dissociative symptoms. CBT also teaches grounding techniques that help people reconnect with their bodies and environment.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

DBT blends cognitive-behavioral strategies with mindfulness practices and acceptance principles. DBT is especially beneficial for individuals with trauma histories, as it helps them accept painful emotions without guilt or shame. This therapy teaches distress tolerance and emotional regulation, key skills for those experiencing depersonalization and derealization. By learning to accept their feelings and thoughts, individuals can reduce the sense of detachment and increase emotional connection.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a trauma-focused therapy that helps individuals process distressing memories, particularly traumatic ones that may contribute to DPDR symptoms. Through guided eye movements, EMDR helps people reprocess these memories in a safe and controlled environment. It’s an effective technique for people with trauma histories who have suppressed or avoided difficult emotions. EMDR aims to help them reconnect with their feelings and overcome dissociative symptoms.

Addressing Co-Occurring Conditions

Depersonalization-derealization disorder is often accompanied by co-occurring mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety. These conditions can amplify the symptoms of DPDR, as emotional numbness and anxiety are frequently interlinked. Treating both DPDR and its co-occurring disorders simultaneously is essential for optimal outcomes.

Medications can play a pivotal role in managing both DPDR symptoms and conditions like anxiety or depression. However, treatment should always be individualized to ensure the best possible approach, considering the unique needs of the person being treated.

Substance Use and DPDR

Drug and alcohol abuse are common among individuals with depersonalization-derealization disorder. In some cases, people may use substances to intensify or suppress their dissociative symptoms. Substance use can create a vicious cycle, worsening symptoms and leading to dependence.

The most effective approach to treating co-occurring substance use and DPDR is through integrated care. This means that both the dissociative disorder and the substance use disorder are addressed in a coordinated manner, often by the same treatment team.

At The Recovery Village Indianapolis, we specialize in treating co-occurring disorders, including depersonalization-derealization disorder and substance use. Our integrated treatment approach focuses on healing the whole person, offering therapy, medication, and support tailored to each individual’s needs.

If you or someone you love is struggling with depersonalization-derealization disorder, reach out to The Recovery Village Indianapolis for a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the dissociative symptoms and any underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or substance use.