8 papers in the library · publishing 2023
Feeling Unreal June 22, 2023 Daphne Simeon, Jeffrey Abugel
Abstract: The social isolation created by the COVID-19 lockdown prompted a dramatic increase in use of the internet, Zoom, and Skype. It also brought greater attention to the subject of internet addiction. New books and studies took a closer look at problematic internet use and issues related to increased time spent online, as well as increased dependence on smartphones for social interaction....
Feeling Unreal June 22, 2023 Daphne Simeon, Jeffrey Abugel
Abstract Depersonalization is the third most common psychiatric symptom, yet clinicians and lay people still know little about its presentation and treatment. While it can indeed be a symptom accompanying other mental illnesses, it is also a full-blown disorder unto itself, recognized by every major diagnostic manual. Chapter 1 discusses the symptoms of depersonalization/derealization disorder...
Feeling Unreal June 22, 2023 Daphne Simeon, Jeffrey Abugel
Abstract The chapter focuses on the many nuances of depersonalization/derealization (dpdr) experiences, and on how to measure dpdr symptoms. The meanings of the word “unreal,” as well as shifts in the phenomenology of the disorder over the past century are discussed. Two self-report questionnaires are provided and explicated. The Dissociative Experiences Scale is a 28-item questionnaire that...
Feeling Unreal June 22, 2023 Daphne Simeon, Jeffrey Abugel
Abstract This chapter describes how to diagnose depersonalization/derealization disorder (DDD) according to the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, criterion by criterion, and provides clinical vignettes relevant to diagnosis. Each of the five DSM diagnostic criteria is presented and discussed. Criterion A1 requires persistent or recurrent episodes of...
Feeling Unreal June 22, 2023 Daphne Simeon, Jeffrey Abugel
Abstract This chapter examines the various biological factors that may be involved in depersonalization/derealization (dpdr) and depersonalization/derealization disorder (DDD). The role of sensory association cortical areas and corticocortical dysconnectivity models are discussed, vis-à-vis the perceptual alterations characteristic of the disorder. The role of the limbic system and the...
Feeling Unreal June 22, 2023 Daphne Simeon, Jeffrey Abugel
Abstract This chapter reviews the steps involved in evaluating patients who may have depersonalization/derealization disorder (DDD), along with basic psychoeducational and psychotherapeutic principles that facilitate the initiation of treatment. Nine topics that often come up at the start of psychotherapy with DDD patients, and are very helpful to address early on, are formulated and discussed....
Feeling Unreal June 22, 2023 Daphne Simeon, Jeffrey Abugel
Abstract The chapter elaborates psychodynamic psychotherapy approaches to the treatment of depersonalization/derealization disorder (DDD), intertwined with illustrative case examples. The chapter starts with more classic psychoanalytic reflections on the nature and treatment of depersonalization/derealization, including the often-assumed chronicity and refractoriness of the condition, the use...
Feeling Unreal June 22, 2023 Daphne Simeon, Jeffrey Abugel
Abstract This chapter explores the use of cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based psychotherapy techniques in the treatment of depersonalization/derealization disorder (DDD). Cognitive-behavioral therapy seeks to identify and change distorted thinking patterns, as well as avoidant and ritualistic behaviors. Ten cognitive distortions, commonly encountered in depersonalization/derealization...