These symptomsreferred to asdepersonalization and derealizationcan sometimes accompany this pop in of anxiety response.
The mental and emotional symptoms that go along with these bodily sensations can be just as frightening.
Keep reading to learn more about depersonalization and derealization in panic attacks.
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Even your closest family members or friends may seem like strangers.
What does derealization feel like?
Often people describe derealization as feeling spaced out or foggy.
People and objects in the environment may begin to seem unreal, distorted, or cartoon-like.
Others report feeling trapped by their environment or viewing their surroundings as surreal and unfamiliar.
It could feel as if you’re in a strange country or on another planet.
You may feel as if you have no control over your actions.
This terrifying feeling often is accompanied by thoughts and fears oflosing touch with realityor losing control over yourself.
Depersonalization can cause frightening physical sensations such as numbness or tingling.
Coping With Depersonalization During a Panic Attack
If you’re experiencing depersonalization, slow your breathing.
Take very long, slow, deep breaths, focusing on sustaining the exhale as well as the inhale.
Once treated, panic disorders should no longer lead to panic attacks or their symptoms.
Anxiety and panic disorder are highly treatable.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Treatment for panic disorder typically involvesmedications for panic disorder, psychotherapy, or both.
Simply seeking help will likely have you feeling better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Depersonalization is a symptom of a panic attack and not the cause of it.
Anxiety attacks are a common cause of derealization.
However, anxiety attacks are not the only cause of derealization.
Other causes can include trauma, drug use, depression, dementia, schizophrenia, and depersonalization/derealization disorder.
American Psychiatric Association (APA).Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
5th ed, text revision.
Washington, D.C.; 2022.
