Conversations Depersonalisation — when Nathan lost his sense of self and nothing felt real
10 snips
Jun 3, 2025 Nathan Dunne, an Australian author and art critic, shares his harrowing journey with depersonalization, which struck him during a midnight swim in London. He recounts years of misdiagnoses and the emotional chaos that accompanied his loss of self. Through poignant reflections, Nathan discusses how familial connections and a war memoir from his grandfather played vital roles in his healing. He delves into the complexities of love amid disconnection and emphasizes the importance of compassion in overcoming mental health challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Depersonalization Strikes During Swim
- Nathan Dunne was hit by a sudden catastrophic sense of depersonalization during a freezing night swim in Hampstead Heath in 2008.
- He felt disconnected from his body and reality, unable to recognize himself or feel anchored in the world.
Split Self and Disconnection
- Nathan could say his name and speak but felt like his mind was physically outside his body.
- This split created a terrifying sense of watching himself from above, disconnected and robotic.
Despair and Misdiagnosis Period
- After the initial onset, Nathan felt overwhelmed by suicidal thoughts and attempted suicide.
- Medical tests like MRIs and eye exams showed nothing conclusive, deepening his despair.
