Diseases and Conditions

Depersonalization-derealization disorder

Diagnosis

Your doctor may determine or rule out a diagnosis of depersonalization-derealization disorder based on:

  • Physical exam. In some cases, symptoms of depersonalization or derealization may be linked to an underlying physical health problem, medications, recreational drugs or alcohol.
  • Lab tests. Some lab tests may help determine whether your symptoms are related to medical or other issues.
  • Psychiatric evaluation. Your mental health professional asks about your symptoms, thoughts, feelings and behavior patterns, which can help determine if you have depersonalization-derealization disorder or other mental health disorders.
  • DSM-5. Your mental health professional may use the criteria for depersonalization-derealization disorder listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association.