Understanding Depersonalisation in Adults with ADHD: Symptoms, Causes, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Support

Depersonalisation is a dissociative experience characterised by a feeling of detachment from one’s thoughts, feelings, or body. Individuals may feel like they’re observing themselves from outside their body or that the world around them isn’t real. While occasional episodes can occur during periods of stress or fatigue, persistent or recurrent experiences may indicate depersonalisation-derealisation disorder (DDD) (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

​Symptoms of Depersonalisation

Common symptoms include:

  • Feeling like an outside observer of one’s thoughts or body

  • Emotional or physical numbness

  • A sense that one’s memories lack emotion

  • Distorted perception of time

  • Feeling disconnected from surroundings (derealisation)​

These symptoms can be distressing and interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and work performance.

​Causes and Prevalence

Depersonalisation can result from various factors, including severe stress, trauma, anxiety, depression, or substance use. It’s estimated that about 1–2% of the general population experience chronic depersonalisation, while transient episodes are more common, especially during periods of intense stress (Simeon & Abugel, 2006).

​Challenges Faced by Individuals with Depersonalisation

Living with depersonalisation can be challenging. Individuals may struggle with:

  • Maintaining relationships due to emotional detachment

  • Performing daily tasks because of concentration difficulties

  • Managing anxiety and depression that often accompany depersonalisation​

These challenges can lead to a diminished quality of life and feelings of isolation.

​Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as a Supportive Framework

CBT is an evidence-based therapeutic approach effective in treating depersonalisation. It helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours contributing to their symptoms. CBT techniques for depersonalisation may include grounding exercises, cognitive restructuring, and mindfulness practices (Hunter et al., 2004).

How Brain Training Australia’s CBT for Adults with ADHD Program Supports Individuals Experiencing Depersonalisation

Depersonalisation, characterised by feelings of detachment from oneself or one’s surroundings, can be a distressing experience. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has been recognised as an effective treatment for depersonalisation, aiming to help individuals understand and manage their symptoms by addressing negative thought patterns and behaviours. Brain Training Australia’s CBT for Adults with ADHD Program, while primarily designed for adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), incorporates strategies that can also benefit those experiencing depersonalisation.​

1. Cognitive Restructuring Techniques

The program emphasises identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts, a core component of CBT. For individuals experiencing depersonalisation, this can involve recognising thoughts that contribute to feelings of unreality or detachment and reframing them in a more balanced and grounded manner. By altering these thought patterns, individuals can reduce the intensity and frequency of depersonalisation episodes.​

2. Grounding and Mindfulness Exercises

Grounding techniques are essential for those dealing with depersonalisation, as they help anchor individuals in the present moment. Brain Training Australia’s program includes mindfulness exercises that encourage participants to focus on their immediate environment and bodily sensations. These practices can counteract feelings of disconnection and promote a sense of reality.​

3. Emotional Regulation Strategies

Emotional dysregulation can exacerbate depersonalisation symptoms. The program offers tools to help individuals recognise and manage their emotional responses effectively. By developing healthier coping mechanisms, participants can mitigate the emotional triggers that often lead to depersonalisation episodes.​

4. Flexible, Self-Paced Learning

Understanding that concentration and motivation can be challenging, especially for those with ADHD or experiencing depersonalisation, the program is designed to be self-paced. Participants can engage with the material at their own speed, allowing them to absorb and apply the strategies effectively without added pressure.​

5. Multimodal Content Delivery

The course offers content through various formats, including videos with captions, interactive exercises, and written materials. This multimodal approach caters to different learning preferences and can be particularly beneficial for individuals who may find traditional learning methods challenging due to their symptoms.​

6. Practical Workbooks and Exercises

Accompanying workbooks provide structured exercises that reinforce the concepts taught in the program. These practical tools encourage active participation and allow individuals to apply CBT techniques to real-life situations, facilitating better management of depersonalisation symptoms.

7. Importance of Professional Support

While self-guided programs can be beneficial, it’s crucial for individuals experiencing depersonalisation to seek support from qualified mental health professionals, such as therapists, counsellors, or psychologists. Professional guidance can provide personalised strategies and ensure that underlying issues are appropriately addressed. However, if accessing professional support is not immediately feasible, Brain Training Australia’s online CBT program serves as a valuable starting point, offering evidence-based techniques to begin managing symptoms and focusing on what factors you can control. 

While Brain Training Australia’s CBT for Adult ADHD program is tailored for those with ADHD, its comprehensive approach incorporating cognitive restructuring, grounding techniques, emotional regulation, and flexible learning modalities makes it a valuable resource for individuals experiencing depersonalisation. By engaging with the program, participants can acquire effective strategies to understand and manage their symptoms, leading to improved well-being and daily functioning.

​Benefits of our CBT Program for Adults with ADHD

At Brain Training Australia, we offer a self-paced online CBT programs designed to support adults with ADHD, many of whom experience depersonalisation. Our course provides:​

  • Immediate Access: Start learning CBT strategeis to support your ADHD as soon as you enrol.

  • Flexible Learning: Access modules via web browsers on desktops, laptops, tablets, iPhones/iOS, and smartphones.

  • Guided Workbooks: Comprehensive materials to accompany each course.

  • Adjustable Playback Speeds: Control the pace of video content to suit your preferences.

  • Bite-Sized Chapters: Manageable segments to facilitate learning.

  • Practical Techniques: Step-by-step examples to apply CBT strategies.

  • Interactive Components: Engaging activities to reinforce learning.

  • Captions with Word Highlighting: Visual aids to support comprehension.

  • Customisable Auditory Preferences: Options to mute audio and rely on subtitles, catering to different learning styles.​

Our program modules are ADHD-friendly, recognising that online learning can be challenging for adults with ADHD. Features like guided workbooks, adjustable playback speeds, and interactive components are designed to support focus, engagement, and flexibility.

​How to Get Started:

Depersonalisation can be a distressing experience, but with the right support and strategies, individuals can manage their symptoms effectively. If you’re experiencing depersonalisation and seeking strategies to manage your symptoms, consider enrolling in Brain Training Australia’s CBT for Adult ADHD program. Its evidence-based techniques and flexible structure are designed to support you on your journey towards improved mental health. Learn more and enrol here

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