depersonalisation/derealisation

[LJB98]

hi guys,

I suffer with anxiety and currently take 100mg Sertraline daily.

One of my big anxiety symptoms is depersonalisation and I feel like I don’t exist. This feeling only worsens the anxiety and it’s one big cycle!

I have been on Sertraline for 7 months now and would say I experience less panic attacks but do have feelings of depersonalisation a lot more often than before I was on sertraline.

Do you think this is a side effect of sertraline? (I would have thought it would have worn off after 7 months to be honest!)

I’m also prescribed propranolol which I can take as and when I need it. I was wondering if anyone has found this helps with depersonalisation? (I’m hesitant to take it as I feel nauseous whenever I do)

[kenster1]

always felt nauseous on prop as well didn`t like them don`t know so much about the sertraline only ever took one tablet go back to the Doc if you think it`s continuing.

[Celtic27 in reply to kenster1]

Hi kenster went back to the quack got strength of medication I needed thank god hope you and your family are well !

[leaningonjesus]

Hi there

im on propanolol for migraine prevention so it helps me in that way

as far as the derealization/ dep, dpdr as its called, yes i am in the same boat! once my mind goes down the path, its a nasty cycle and anxiety and fear go thru the roof

[LJB98 in reply to leaningonjesus]

it’s the oddest sensation isn’t it! Have you got any tips on coping when you do have the sensation?

[leaningonjesus in reply to LJB98]

yes and its frightening. its like i realize its happening but cannot stop it

for me, i guess i try to distract myself and immerse myself in the bible, music,crafting or just cooking or doing something.

[Yogi2021]

I would go back to your Doctor to discuss how your feeling and the symptoms you are experiencing.

I don't have knowledge of depersonalisation I'm afraid but I would go back to your Doctor.

I'm on Sertraline too 75mg for anxiety and depression. I also can take propranolol as and when needed.

It may be your medication dosage needs to be review or they consider a different medication. Stay strong 💪 xx

[IceMaiden82]

I can only speak from my own experience. My go-to drug is Fluoxetine. I have suffered symptoms of Depersonalisation/Derealisation from my teens. (Now 83 years of age). In those days 1950/1960s it was not really recognised. I don't thing the drugs make it any worse. The drugs help to subdue the anxiety and once that is conquered/healed then the DD seems to go away. It is a horrible sensation. I read recently that the brain is "resting from stress" when DD occurs! Anxiety brings so many weird thoughts and sensations. I must emphasise again I am only speaking from my own experience. Good Luck.

[LJB98 in reply to IceMaiden82]

Hi! Thank you for your advice and I love the phrase ‘resting from stress’ and think if I alter the way I think about depersonalisation that could help! Especially as I got it just before bed, maybe it’s my bodies way of telling me to rest.

[LJB98]

yes I did just not as frequently! But I think because I had major panic attacks during September my body is still trying to get back to normal so maybe that is why the derealization has increased! I think it has got easier putting a name to the sensation as before as crazy as it sounds I honestly felt like I was living in a simulation!

[kainasar]

At that point I start looking for an anti-depressant, and adjust the sert.

[Kinlay]

I believe from what I can find that propranolol primarily helps with the physical symptoms of anxiety, so might not help with depersonalization. psychcentral.com/anxiety/is....

I am not seeing depersonalization as a common side effect of sertraline, but side effects can be tricky. I would recommend reaching out to your psychiatrist.

[scansnap]

It sounds like you are suffering from significant anxiety. You may want to check with your doctor for a different medication or perhaps you need a dosage adjustment.

In addition to medication changes you might want to consider basic relaxation techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing. These may help you with your anxiety and help you to feel more centered.