Depersonalization, a feeling of unreality, is often associated with anxiety and stress. It isn't a specific mental illness.

When anxious or under stress, some people breathe more deeply and more often (hyperventilate). This lowers carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which can cause:

• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness
• Unusual feelings, such as being outside your body

These feelings can worsen already-present anxiety because you may feel like you're losing control. These sensations may be uncomfortable. But they're not harmful.

When feelings of unreality or being outside yourself occur, they're usually brief but may occur repeatedly. In some people — especially those with persistent stress or anxiety — they may last a longer time. Sometimes, anxiety about having another experience with depersonalization may trigger these feelings.

Recognizing the problem is the first step toward getting better. Accurate diagnosis also is key. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps you understand why depersonalization occurs and train yourself to stop worrying about the symptoms so that they go away

• Anti-anxiety medications, which treat the underlying anxiety disorder causing the symptoms