Although depersonalization is not an illness, it can become a stubborn symptom of anxiety. This is because the path it follows often turns into a self-perpetuating cycle, if not correctly interrupted.
A mind, exhausted from constant fear and worry, often experiences considerable lack of concentration, delayed response action, overall fogginess and heightened emotional reactions. Vague visual disturbances may also be experienced along with increased sensitization. Fear serves to lower serotonin levels which in turn perpetuates this cycle of depersonalization. The mind and body, emotionally tired, are more prone to sensations of unreality and brain fog.
It is extremely important to understand depersonalization and the true nature of this disorder in order to overcome its affects. The facts are often misunderstood, which often perpetuate the problem in itself.
– Depersonalization is a symptom of anxiety, not physical or emotional damage, and this must be explained in detail, understood and accepted as the first step toward recovery.
– Depersonalization is often exacerbated by medications and sometimes actually impedes progress.
– The cycle, though frustrating, is not difficult to break when a specific process is followed.
The mind-body approach is the two-step plan which interrupts the cycle of depersonalization (derealization as well).
Mind: Retrain the Brain: One has been programmed out of fear to believe they are damaged or ill, when this is not the case. Explanation and understanding is essential to ease the mind and douse the mystery surrounding depersonalization. It is essential that these specific fears, which fuel the behavior, are eliminated. It is important to stress the “science” behind the sensations, the concept of switching off fear and the ability to demystify worries which perpetuate the cycle. Retraining the brain or changing the learned behavior requires definite dialogue reprogramming, which brings forth a noticeable control over the situation, and renewal of clear thinking. Fogginess lifts as one learns and applies the specific behaviors, attitudes and adjustments.
Body: Serotonin Boosting: Food plays a large part in creating a less reactive mind and body. Increased serotonin guards against over-reaction and ensures a calmer, less reactive mind and body.
The combination of mind and body treatment allows for full recovery of normal reactions, emotional rest and results in the restoration of normal, present moment thinking and feeling. The sensation of unreality or recession is now restored to normalcy.
Through the mind-body approach, concentration returns to normal, brain fog lifts and a stubborn symptom fades. Recovery is not difficult when these steps are applied. Fear is eliminated and the mind is able to refresh in a simple, and expedient fashion.