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Though the phrase may seem exaggerated, feeling “dead inside” is a real state, one that many people can relate to personally. The experience may be difficult to imagine for those who have not gone through it, and it can be hard for those going through it to explain their feelings to others.
When a person feels dead inside, it’s almost like someone has turned the volume knob down on all of their emotions. Happiness, sadness, anger, excitement, pleasure—all become much duller. People who are experiencing this phenomenon often feel as if life is boring, has no purpose, or stretches on with no end in sight.
The word sometimes used to describe this mental state is “depersonalization.” Sometimes, this emotional numbness (depersonalization) quickly recedes. In other cases, it might last for days, weeks, or even years. If the issue becomes chronic, it could be a sign of a serious condition called “depersonalization disorder,” also known as “derealization disorder.”
To help you through these periods, we’ll dive into what causes depersonalization disorder, as well as which coping strategies can help you when the sensation suddenly takes over you.
What is the Difference Between Feeling Down and a Depersonalization?
Though they may seem similar, there is a difference between feeling down and depersonalization. A person could describe themselves as feeling down if they are feeling quite sad or hopeless. The presence of strong emotions is key. Feeling down certainly could be a sign of issues like depression, but it probably isn’t depersonalization.
Most people feel “off” or detached from the world sometimes, though. Someone could mistake this transient depersonalization as feeling down if they had no history with the sensation. If the feeling is fleeting, there is no need for treatment.
It’s also worth noting that depersonalization is often comorbid with depression and anxiety. If you’re experiencing symptoms consistent with any of these conditions for more than two weeks, consult your doctor or a mental health professional for guidance.
What are the Symptoms of Depersonalization Disorder?
Along with emotional detachment, depersonalization disorder also features several other symptoms. Some people describe the condition as feeling like they are a robot that someone else is controlling. Others state that it feels like the world is a dream or like they are watching a movie of themselves. Another frequent description is the fear of losing their mind.
During a state of depersonalization, you might also experience anhedonia. This is a state where your motivation dips, you don’t really feel like doing much of anything, and you no longer experience pleasure.
Unlike psychotic disorders, depersonalization disorder does not entail losing touch with reality, and those who have it are fully aware that their perceptions are not real.