The Illusions of DP/DR

        There seem to be a number of different aspects of DP/DR.  Not only do people experience it in a variety of ways, but the onset comes from an array of factors and the causes seem to be different as well.  The focus of my energy has been on the mental or cognitive aspects of DP/DR.  This mostly results from my belief that there is only so much that I can control about the physical elements of the experience.  Fortunately, the tips that I have employed and shared on my blog have worked very well for me.  In addition to being on a consistent dose of Zoloft (200 mg) I have also devoted much of my time to reducing anxiety, reflecting and general self-help.
        One of the most obvious ideas that has resulted from my DP/DR and subsequent recovery process has been the notion that panic, fear, and anxiety impede the process of recovery.  Even though we may find it hard to believe that there is nothing inherently wrong with us or the environments in which you live, ultimately everything in many ways is just fine.  Our beliefs may be the biggest obstacle in our attempts to heal.  You might say, "Well how can I change a belief when all of the stimuli make me feel out of place, uncomfortable, and even miserable in my existence?"  This type of questioning necessitates a new way of looking at the symptoms.  If we only see the world in a negative light or if we think our world has been literally turned upside down than it's time for a change.  DP/DR is nothing more than a matter of perception.  Sure there are many factors that contribute to that perception, but at the end of the day all that has changed is the way we see, negotiate, and feel about the world.  We see DP/DR as an attempt to lift a car by ourselves when in reality our problems are nothing more than lifting a glass of water.  The complicating part is that we truly believe that the problem is like lifting a car.
        In all likelihood, we cannot lift a car by ourselves, most people cannot.  However, there are many different ways we can accomplish this task:  enlist the help of others, new tools, try another car etc.  This is how we need to view the symptoms.  There is something that seems impossible to move past, but we just need to reevaluate the way we're approaching the problem.  In order to love without DP/DR in our life we need patience, resilience, and the right tools.  We may not get the problem right the first time, but a solution is out there and comfort and happiness are possible for all of us.