Overcoming Derealisation: Understanding the Root Causes and Finding Relief

Are you struggling with feelings of disconnection from reality, as if the world around you has become unreal or distorted? If you're searching for an online CBT/EMDR therapist to help you navigate Derealisation, you've come to the right place. In this blog, we'll explore what Derealisation is, its potential root causes, and some strategies for overcoming it.

Understanding Derealisation

Derealisation is a psychological phenomenon that can be both distressing and disorienting. Individuals experiencing derealisation often describe feeling like they're in a dream or that their surroundings lack the usual vividness and clarity. It can leave you feeling detached from the world around you.

Derealisation can be associated with various underlying factors, and understanding these causes is an essential step in addressing it. Some common root causes include:

Anxiety Disorders: Derealisation often occurs as a symptom of anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder or generalised anxiety disorder. When anxiety reaches high levels, it can lead to a distorted perception of reality.

Trauma and Stress: Unresolved trauma or chronic stress can trigger Derealisation. Traumatic experiences can leave a lasting impact on your mental health, leading to disconnection from reality as a coping mechanism.

Depersonalisation-Derealisation Disorder: Some individuals experience chronic and severe Derealisation as a primary symptom of Depersonalisation-Derealisation Disorder, a dissociative disorder.

Other Mental Health Conditions: Derealisation can also be a component of other mental health conditions, such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Overcoming Derealisation

If you're struggling with derealisation, whether you're in Argyll & Bute, Auchterarder or anywhere else, there are steps you can take to find relief and regain a sense of connection with reality:

  1. Seek Professional Help: Reach out to a qualified therapist who specialises in treating Derealisation and its underlying causes. They can provide you with guidance and support tailored to your unique situation.
  2. Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy or Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR) (CBT): CBT and EMDR are effective approaches for managing Derealisation. They help you identify and challenge distorted thought patterns, providing you with tools to regain a sense of control.
  3. Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques: Mindfulness practices and grounding exercises can help you stay present and connected to reality. These techniques can be invaluable in moments of Derealisation.
  4. Stress Management: If stress is a significant factor contributing to your Derealisation, learning stress management techniques can be crucial. These may include relaxation exercises, deep breathing, and lifestyle changes to reduce stress.
  5. Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed by a healthcare professional to address underlying anxiety or other mental health conditions that contribute to derealisation.

Remember that overcoming derealisation is a process that may take time. Be patient with yourself and stay committed to your therapy and self-care practices. With the help of a qualified therapist, you can work toward regaining a sense of connection with reality and improving your overall well-being.

If you're looking for a therapist in Argyll & Bute, Auchterarder or prefer online counselling, don't hesitate to reach out to Rebecca Muller CBT. I specialise in helping individuals overcome Derealisation and related challenges, providing you with the support and guidance you need on your journey to recovery. You don't have to navigate this experience alone—there is help and hope available.