Worries, Fears and Anxiety Disorders / Question
Published: January 21, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I read a few responses to questions relating to social phobia/anxiety. I am already quite positive that I have this type of problem, and experience most of the symptoms that you, as well as other people on other websites, have described. I just have one question-what do you mean by "detachment from oneself?" I think I might know what you mean, but I am not totally sure. Often, I get this feeling that I am not really inside myself. It's very complex, and it's almost impossible to explain fully. Basically though, sometimes when I look in the mirror, I cannot believe that the person who I am looking at is the same person within me, thinking about that. I don't know how else to put it. I guess sometimes when I and doing something, like writing for instance, I will look down at my hands and have trouble believing that what is coming out on the paper from my hands is coming from the same place where I am thinking. Basically, all I want to know is, is this "detachment from oneself?" And if not, what is?
Signed: Detachment
Dear Detachment,
TeenHealthFX is glad you wrote. Your question, what is "detachment from oneself" is difficult to describe, but the two descriptions you provided (looking in the mirror and writing) are very good examples of detachment. Many people feel this way from time to time. A good way to look at this is as if you are in a dream, even though your perceptions of reality still function (you know when it is and where you are).
Having these types of feelings along with feeling like you have social phobia and anxiety can be difficult and TeenHealthFX believes it is important for you to talk with an adult that you trust, like your doctor or a counselor. They help you sort out what is going on and help you find a way to resolve these feelings. You do not mention if you have told your parents, but they are a good resource to help. If for some reason you are not comfortable talking with your parents first try someone you can talk to at school or maybe an aunt or uncle.
If you have social phobia and/or anxiety, you should ultimately seek out the advice of a trained professional. Counseling with a therapist and possibly medication could help you enormously with your concerns.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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