Also from the wikipedia article on derealization:
Quote:
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Frequently, derealization occurs in the context of constant worrying or 'intrusive thoughts' that people find hard to switch off. In such cases it can build unnoticed along with the underlying anxiety attached to these disturbing thoughts, and be recognized only in the aftermath of a realization of crisis, often a panic attack, subsequently seeming difficult or impossible to ignore. This type of anxiety can be crippling to the affected and may lead to avoidant behavior. Those who experience this phenomenon may feel concern over the cause of their derealization. It is often difficult to accept that such a disturbing symptom is simply a result of anxiety, and the individual may often think that the cause must be something more serious. This can, in turn, cause more anxiety and worsen the derealization.
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I point it out, because my son associates these experiences with panic attacks, almost like a prelude or warning. In fact, the few times the panic attack
didn't follow the perceptual changes he was surprised and relieved.
Do you have panic or anxiety along with it?
I've also seen the avoidant behavior. He's mentioned being afraid to leave the house for fear having an attack. I've had to insist he go out anyway. I don't want his world to grow smaller because he's afraid something bad
might happen.