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STRESS AND TRAUMA: Psychotherapy and Pharmacotherapy for Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder
Julie P Gentile1, Malynda Snyder1, Paulette Marie Gillig1
1Dr. Gentile is Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio; Malynda Snyder is Manager of Assessment Services, Consumer Advocacy Model, Dayton, Ohio; and Dr. Gillig is Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio.
Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience
|October 23, 2014
Summary
Depersonalization/derealization disorder involves persistent feelings of detachment from oneself or reality, often co-occurring with other dissociative disorders. This review covers diagnosis and treatment, including psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Depersonalization/derealization disorder is a dissociative disorder characterized by persistent detachment from self or surroundings.
- It often co-occurs with other dissociative disorders like dissociative amnesia and identity disorder.
- These conditions may be underdiagnosed, particularly in trauma survivors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical, phenomenological, and epidemiological data on dissociative disorders.
- To illustrate common presentations of depersonalization/derealization disorder.
- To outline recommended treatment interventions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical, phenomenological, and epidemiological information.
- Analysis of composite cases to illustrate presenting histories.
- Focus on psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy interventions.
Main Results:
- Depersonalization/derealization disorder is a distinct diagnostic entity within dissociative disorders.
- Limited specific prevalence data exists for depersonalization/derealization disorder.
- Composite cases highlight common clinical presentations and treatment approaches.
Conclusions:
- Depersonalization/derealization disorder requires comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment.
- Psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy are key components of management.
- Further research on prevalence and specific treatment efficacy is warranted.
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