Understanding Dissociation: Depersonalization and Derealization

Our brain and nervous systems are incredibly protective—they can shield us from overwhelming stimuli by shutting out sensations. This mechanism plays a central role in depersonalization and derealization (DPDR), causing you to feel detached and like you are observing yourself from a distance. While these dissociative states can offer short-term protection, chronic experiences can lead to further dysregulation as unprocessed emotions accumulate. In today’s episode, Elisabeth and Jennifer dive into DPDR, explaining its impact on the brain and nervous system. They discuss why our senses become muted, its protective role, and how it shows up in those with childhood trauma. Elisabeth and Jennifer also share their personal experiences and how they found safety in their bodies to process their emotions. While our brain and body protect us from overwhelming sensations, the stored experience remains within us. The journey to healing involves convincing our brain and body that it’s safe to reconnect with these feelings, building internal capacity to do so. Simply understanding DPDR isn’t enough; we must communicate with our nervous system to reclaim our sense of self.

If you've experienced depersonalization and derealization and are seeking healing insights, don't miss this episode!

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is depersonalization and derealization (DPDR)?

• Why are our senses muted, yet still active, during DPDR?

• The connection between CPTSD and DPDR

• The high levels of dysregulation that occur with DPDR

• Co-regulation versus nervous system disconnection

• How derealization and depersonalization function as adaptive strategies

• Why healing DPDR requires working directly with the nervous system

• What happens when you finally start feeling again after DPDR

• How to cultivate a sense of safety around your internal signals

• The vagus nerve's role in healing DPDR and practical techniques to activate it

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