To receive a diagnosis of depersonalization/derealization disorder, the person must:

A) have frequent and distressing episodes of detachment from self or surroundings that disrupt functioning.
B) have been under the influence of an illicit drug or be chronically sleep deprived.
C) have alternating personalities trying to gain control.
D) have been exposed to a traumatic event such as sexual assault.

A diagnosis of depersonalization/derealization disorder requires the individual to experience frequent and distressing episodes of detachment from themselves or their surroundings that interfere with their daily functioning. This detachment cannot be explained by another condition, such as substance use or a dissociative identity disorder. Although trauma may be a contributing factor, it is not a requirement for diagnosis. The disorder is characterized by a persistent or recurrent feeling of detachment or being an outside observer of one's thoughts, feelings, sensations, body or actions.