I’m Not Feeling Like Myself: What Can I Do About It?

Experiencing a sense of detachment from oneself can be alarming and unsettling, casting shadows on daily life and overall well-being. The not feeling like yourself can stem from a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, or even deeper underlying mental health issues. It’s important to recognize that this sensation is not uncommon, and seeking appropriate mental health treatment is a crucial step toward restoration. Professional mental health facilities and resources, such as mental health first aid, can provide the guidance and support needed to navigate these challenging emotions. Whether it’s engaging in therapy, considering inpatient mental health care, or exploring tailored treatment options, prioritizing mental health matters. Addressing these concerns with diligence and care can pave the way for a renewed sense of self and a brighter path toward emotional well-being.

Why Don’t I Feel Like Myself?

Experiencing a persistent disconnect from one’s usual self can be a perplexing and distressing phenomenon. Several factors can contribute to this unsettling sensation, often leaving individuals wondering, “Why don’t I feel like myself?” Stress, major life changes, trauma, and sleep disturbances are common triggers that can lead to feelings of detachment and unease.

In some cases, the root cause could be attributed to underlying mental health disorders. One such disorder is Depersonalization-derealization disorder (DDD), characterized by an ongoing sense of detachment from oneself or the surrounding environment. A brief summary of the DSM-V diagnostic criteria for Depersonalization-derealization disorder includes:

• Persistent or recurrent experiences of depersonalization, derealization, or both.
• During these experiences, one may feel detached from or as if an outside observer of one’s thoughts, feelings, sensations, body, or actions (depersonalization), or that one’s surroundings are unreal or distant (derealization).
• The experiences cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.
• The experiences are not attributed to the physiological effects of a substance, medical condition, or another mental disorder.
• The experiences are not part of a cultural or religious practice.
• The symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder.
• Individuals with this disorder may feel as though they are observing their own life from a distance, leading to a profound sense of not feeling like themselves.

It’s essential to recognize that seeking professional help is crucial when grappling with these emotions. Your mental health matters, and addressing potential underlying issues through therapy, counseling, or other appropriate interventions can provide clarity and relief. By taking proactive steps toward understanding and managing these sensations, individuals can work towards reclaiming a sense of self and emotional well-being.

What Are Mental Health Disorders? 

Mental health disorders refer to a broad range of conditions that affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. These disorders can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. They often result from a complex interplay of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Common mental health disorders include:

• Depression: Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities.
• Anxiety Disorders: Such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder, involve excessive worry, fear, or nervousness.
• Bipolar Disorder: Marked by extreme mood swings between depressive lows and manic highs.
• Schizophrenia: Involves disordered thinking, perception, and emotional responses.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions).
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Develops after exposure to a traumatic event, leading to flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety.
• Borderline Personality Disorder: Involves unstable moods, self-image, and relationships.
• Eating Disorders: Such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, are characterized by unhealthy eating behaviors and distorted body image.

These disorders vary in their symptoms, severity, and impact on daily life. They often require diagnosis and treatment from qualified mental health professionals to achieve recovery and improve overall well-being.