Feeling like everyone and everything in the world is not real is a common experience known as "derealization." Derealization is a symptom associated with various mental health conditions and emotional states, and it can also occur as a response to stress or anxiety. Some potential reasons why you might be feeling this way include:
Anxiety and Stress: High levels of anxiety or stress can lead to feelings of detachment and unreality. When the mind is overwhelmed, it may dissociate from the present moment, causing a sense of unreality in the world around you.
Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder: This is a dissociative disorder characterized by persistent feelings of detachment from oneself and one's surroundings. If you experience these feelings frequently and they interfere with your daily life, it's essential to seek professional help for a proper evaluation.
Trauma: Experiencing trauma or a distressing event can trigger feelings of derealization as a coping mechanism to emotionally distance oneself from the traumatic experience.
Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can affect your perception and lead to feelings of unreality.
Substance Use: Certain drugs or medications, especially hallucinogens or psychoactive substances, can induce feelings of detachment and unreality.
Depression: In some cases, depression can lead to emotional numbness and a sense of detachment from the world.
Existential Thoughts: Philosophical or existential reflections on the nature of reality and existence may also contribute to these feelings.
If you're experiencing persistent feelings of derealization or it's interfering with your daily life, it's crucial to seek support from a mental health professional. They can help assess your situation, provide a diagnosis if necessary, and offer appropriate treatment options. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be beneficial in addressing derealization and its underlying causes. Additionally, managing stress, practicing mindfulness, getting adequate sleep, and avoiding substance use can also help improve your overall sense of reality and well-being.