| Prevalence |
The prevalence of depersonalization-derealization disorder is unknown but thought to be from extremely low to 2.8% (Sar et al., 2007; Spiegel et al., 2011). |
| Comorbidity |
People with depersonalization-derealization disorder may also have symptoms of anxiety (Bremner et al., 1998; Marshall et al., 2000; Segui et al., 2000). In one sample of 204 people with depersonalization-derealization disorder, almost three quarters had an anxiety disorder at the time or previously (Baker et al., 2003). Major depressive disorder is also a common comorbid disorder. |
| Onset |
The average age of onset of depersonalization-derealization disorder is 16 years old; it is very rare for it to develop after age 40. Episodes can be triggered by a wide range of events, including trauma, extreme stress, depression, panic, and the ingestion of a psychoactive drug such as marijuana or alcohol (Raimo et al., 1999; Simeon, Knutelska, et al., 2003). |
| Course |
Episodes of depersonalization or derealization can last from hours to years. The course is often persistent, with a third of people with the disorder having discrete episodes, a third with continuous symptoms after onset, and a third with symptoms initially episodic but eventually becoming continuous. |
| Gender Differences |
Equal numbers of males and females have this disorder. |
| Source: Unless otherwise noted, the source is American Psychiatric Association, 2013. |