Everything seems strange and unreal. Am i about to lose it??

[chuck23]

Hi,

Im Chuck and i am 21 y/o. First of, sorry for my english i mainly speak french. I have felt like this in the past, but it has never been that intense. I feel like i am completely disconnected from reality. The colors are more intense, bright light makes me feel uncomfortable and i do not feel like myself. I feel awkward when i have social interactions and i used to be really sociable. I stoped drinking alcohol and going to social activities because i feel way to disconnected to get out of my house. I tried to go out and take a walk, i tried to exercise, but nothing works. I have a HUGE fear of being psychotic (like my aunt) and i feel like reality is slowly fading and i am about to experience madness. This morning i was feeling so disconnected that i had to stop my car and i almost called 911 because i thought i was having a psychosis. I know that people who experience psychosis don't notice it, but reality seems so strange and i read on a forum where a guy explained his first psychosis was feeling just like that. I am currently seeing a psychologist, but she went on a trip for a month. I also have strange thoughts that i don't want to have. I really need your advices on my situation.

Thank you for reading!

[Calm_mama]

Bonjour Mon ami!

What you are experiencing is a common thing with anxiety. It’s called derealization and it’s part of an expected pattern. It lessens and eventually goes away as you lose your fear of it and lose your fear of these sensations, which are normal for the circumstances. On my profile you will find some excellent resources for anxiety recovery, including recovery from this particular symptom. I’d start with Dr. Weekes- the first video link I have there. She calls this “feelings of unreality”. It’s also known as derealization as I said, or depersonalization. It is completely different from psychosis. I know it’s terrifying right now but understand it’s just a sensitized nervous system that just needs a break from the constant fear...that’s all it is.

Do make sure you see a doc so he/she can check for causes of secondary anxiety (ie thyroid problem, other). Otherwise, therapy and sometimes meds are very supportive of recovery. Many people recover beautifully with just self- help resources like the ones I’ve listed. I believe that Dr Weekes’ book “self help for your nerves” (called Hope and Help For your Nerves in the US) is translated into French (?) although your English is fantastic 😀keep us posted? Wishing you all the best!