Term: Derealization

Derealization is a form of dissociation. It is an experience in which perceptions may seem to lack vividness, as seen throgh a fog, or as though on a tv screen. A persons surroundings may suddenly feel unreal or unfamiliar. Other perceptual may include things seeming larger or smaller than they should, the person’s sense of time may also be distorted. It is a quite common experience, approximately half of all people will experience at least one episode of derealization in their lifetime. Dereaalization is often associated with anxiety and sometimes is secondary to use of certain drugs or medications. It is also associated with a history of developmental trauma. Although most experiences of derealization are brief and transitory, it can be quite distressing. Treatment will depend on the cause of the derealization and often therapy is recommended along with the teaching of grounding skills.