Feeling like one is having an out-of-body experience is a psychological phenomenon that can occur in various situations and is not exclusive to depression or anxiety. However, it can be more prevalent or pronounced in individuals experiencing these mental health conditions. This sensation is commonly referred to as "depersonalization" or "derealization."
Depersonalization: This is a feeling of detachment or disconnection from oneself, as if you are observing your thoughts, feelings, and actions from outside your body. It can lead to a sense of being emotionally numb or disconnected from one's own identity.
Derealization: This is a sense of detachment from the external world, making the surroundings feel unreal, dreamlike, or distorted. Objects, people, and the environment may appear distant or unfamiliar.
The exact causes of depersonalization and derealization in individuals with depression or anxiety are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to these experiences:
Coping Mechanism: Depersonalization and derealization can be the mind's way of coping with overwhelming stress, trauma, or intense emotions associated with depression or anxiety. It serves as a defense mechanism to protect the individual from distressing feelings.
Heightened Anxiety: For individuals with anxiety, particularly during panic attacks or periods of high anxiety, the body's "fight-or-flight" response can trigger changes in perception, leading to feelings of detachment or unreality.
Emotional Dysregulation: Both depression and anxiety can disrupt emotional regulation, causing individuals to feel disconnected from their emotions or experiences.
Dissociation: Depersonalization and derealization are considered forms of dissociation, where there is a disconnection between different aspects of consciousness, such as thoughts, feelings, memories, or identity. Dissociation can be linked to past trauma or ongoing stress.
Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Some research suggests that alterations in neurotransmitter systems, such as serotonin and dopamine, may play a role in depersonalization and derealization experiences.
Cognitive Factors: Negative thought patterns and cognitive distortions common in depression and anxiety may contribute to altered perceptions of the self and the world.
It's important to note that experiencing occasional mild episodes of depersonalization or derealization does not necessarily indicate a mental health disorder. However, if these feelings are persistent, distressing, or significantly impairing daily functioning, it's crucial to seek professional help from a mental health provider. A qualified professional can assess the symptoms, identify any underlying conditions, and develop an appropriate treatment plan to address the root causes and improve well-being. Therapy approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based techniques can be beneficial in managing dissociative experiences and related mental health concerns.