#shawleveryday2019 Day 52
I've talked a couple times about depersonalization/derealization before, which is something I experience from time to time. For me, it feels sort of like a dream, but in a panicky sort of way. I know what's happening isn't real, but it feels very real. Being aware that it isn't real is almost just as unsettling as the feeling itself. I'm stuck in the experience and can't get out of it, even though I know my brain is just messing with me.
There are definitely triggers, which can help me prevent an episode, but if I can't stave it off, the best I can do is ride it out until it goes away in a few minutes. I feel exhausted afterwards and a little out of sorts. Luckily it doesn't happen very often, and so far it hasn't affected my life too negatively, but it's definitely something my doctor and I are keeping an eye on.
Causes aren't well understood, but stress, depression, and anxiety are all factors (check, check and check!). There isn't a lot of direct treatment for depersonalization/derealization, but I've found that ensuring I take my medication regularly and on time has greatly reduced the frequency and intensity of my episodes.
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