Strangers to Ourselves

Depersonalization is the third most common psychiatric symptom, yet remains poorly understood by clinicians and the public. It can accompany other mental illnesses but is also a distinct disorder recognized by major diagnostic manuals. This chapter describes the symptoms of depersonalization/derealization disorder through historical documentation and personal stories. Core symptoms include detachment from one's whole self or aspects of the self (feelings, thoughts, body, agency) and detachment from the outside world. The origins of the term "depersonalization" are discussed, and historical and current descriptions are illustrated with personal quotes and stories, supporting depersonalization/derealization as an independent syndrome rather than merely a symptom of other disorders.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Depersonalization is the third most common psychiatric symptom, yet clinicians and lay people still know little about its presentation and treatment. While it can indeed be a symptom accompanying other mental illnesses, it is also a full-blown disorder unto itself, recognized by every major diagnostic manual. Chapter 1 discusses the symptoms of depersonalization/derealization disorder through historical documentation and personal stories. The core symptoms, as outlined in the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, include detachment from one’s whole self or from aspects of the self (such as feelings, thoughts, the body, and agency), as well as detachment from the outside world. Origins of the term “depersonalization” are discussed, and historical as well as current descriptions of symptoms are brought to life through personal quotes and stories. These substantiate depersonalization/derealization as an independent syndrome rather than simply a symptom of other disorders. This chapter sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of this fascinating, multifaceted, and under-researched condition.