How should I deal with depersonalization?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Depersonalization treatment typically involves working with a mental health professional to address the underlying causes and reduce symptoms. Common approaches include:

Psychotherapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to help reframe distressing thoughts and reconnect with reality
Grounding techniques and coping skills to manage episodes as they occur
Medications such as SSRIs, which may be prescribed to address co-occurring anxiety or depression

Because depersonalization can stem from many causes—stress, trauma, anxiety disorders, or other underlying conditions—identifying what's driving your symptoms is the critical first step toward effective treatment. The sooner you understand the root cause, the sooner you can find relief.

Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights into what may be causing your symptoms and clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if depersonalization needs urgent care Discover likely causes of depersonalization See if symptoms suggest a serious condition Find OTC options for depersonalization relief Find a doctor for depersonalization treatment Discover home remedies for depersonalization symptoms Understand whether depersonalization matches a diagnosis

Not seeing your question? No worries.

Submit your own Question

Explanation

If you find yourself feeling detached from your body or the world, the first step is to check your symptoms with Ubie's free AI-powered tool to better understand what you're experiencing before talking with a trusted doctor or mental health professional. They can help you work through what you're feeling and develop ways to feel more "in" your life.

Often, a type of talk therapy called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is very helpful. This therapy teaches you ways to change unhelpful thoughts and manage stress. In some studies, medications like fluoxetine and other serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been tried to help lessen depersonalization symptoms.

Other approaches may include mindfulness exercises and grounding techniques that help you focus on the present moment, making you feel safer and more connected to yourself. Remember that coping with depersonalization is a gradual process, and what works best can vary from person to person.

If you ever feel overwhelmed, it's important to reach out for help. Working with professionals, practicing self-care, and learning new ways to relax are all steps that can guide you on the path to feeling better.

(References)

Hollander E, Liebowitz MR, DeCaria C, Fairbanks J, Fallon B, Klein DF. Treatment of depersonalization with serotonin reuptake blockers. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 1990 Jun;10(3):200-3. PMID: 2115893.
Simeon D, Guralnik O, Schmeidler J, Knutelska M. Fluoxetine therapy in depersonalisation disorder: randomised controlled trial. Br J Psychiatry. 2004 Jul;185:31-6. doi: 10.1192/bjp.185.1.31. PMID: 15231553.
Sierra M. Depersonalization disorder: pharmacological approaches. Expert Rev Neurother. 2008 Jan;8(1):19-26. doi: 10.1586/14737175.8.1.19. PMID: 18088198.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.