Virtual Reality (VR) has taken the world by storm, providing users with immersive experiences that transport them to new worlds and dimensions. However, while VR offers a thrilling escape from reality, it can also trigger a phenomenon known as derealization. Derealization is a disconnect from one’s surroundings, causing feelings of unreality and detachment. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the triggers that can cause derealization episodes in virtual reality users. From motion sickness to sensory overload, we’ll explore the various factors that can lead to this disorienting experience. So, buckle up and let’s dive into the world of VR and derealization.
What is Derealization?
Definition and Symptoms
Derealization is a dissociative experience characterized by a sense of unreality or detachment from one’s surroundings. It can manifest as a feeling of being detached from one’s body, emotions, or environment. The term “derealization” was first introduced by psychiatrists to describe the feeling of unreality experienced by individuals with depersonalization disorder, a condition in which individuals feel detached from their own bodies or surroundings.
Symptoms of derealization can vary in intensity and duration, but typically include:
- A sense of unreality or detachment from one’s surroundings
- Feeling disconnected from one’s body or emotions
- Feeling as if one is in a dream or a movie
- Distorted perceptions of time, space, or body image
- Confusion, disorientation, or dissociation
- Feeling detached or disconnected from reality
Derealization can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, trauma, medication, or sensory overload. It is important to note that derealization is not the same as depersonalization, although the two terms are often used interchangeably. Depersonalization refers specifically to a detachment from one’s own body or self, while derealization refers to a detachment from one’s surroundings.
Causes and Risk Factors
Derealization is a psychological phenomenon characterized by a sense of unreality or detachment from one’s surroundings. It can manifest as a feeling of being disconnected from one’s body, or as if the world around is not quite real. While derealization can be a symptom of various mental health conditions, it can also be triggered by certain factors, including:
- Sensory Overload: Sensory overload occurs when a person is exposed to an excessive amount of stimuli, leading to an overwhelming and disorienting experience. Virtual reality (VR) environments, with their immersive and dynamic nature, can be particularly prone to sensory overload, especially if the user is not adequately prepared or has limited experience with VR.
- Mental Health Conditions: Individuals with certain mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, panic disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), may be more susceptible to derealization triggers in VR. These conditions can increase the risk of developing a fear of losing control or experiencing intense anxiety during VR experiences.
- Substance Abuse: Substance abuse, particularly the use of hallucinogens or other mind-altering drugs, can increase the risk of derealization triggers in VR. These substances can alter perception and cognition, making it more difficult for individuals to distinguish between reality and virtual reality.
- Previous Traumatic Experiences: Individuals who have experienced traumatic events in the past may be more likely to develop derealization triggers in VR. This is because VR environments can evoke strong emotional responses, potentially triggering past traumas and leading to feelings of disorientation and detachment.
- Physical Health Factors: Certain physical health factors, such as migraines, seizures, or balance disorders, can increase the risk of derealization triggers in VR. These conditions can affect perception and cognition, making it more difficult for individuals to maintain a sense of reality while using VR technology.
It is important to note that not everyone who experiences derealization triggers in VR will have a mental health condition. However, individuals who experience derealization frequently or find it difficult to manage may benefit from seeking professional help. A mental health professional can help identify potential triggers and develop strategies to manage derealization in VR environments.
Virtual Reality and Derealization
How VR Technology Can Trigger Derealization Episodes
VR technology, with its immersive and realistic simulations, has been known to trigger derealization episodes in some users. The disconnect between the virtual environment and the user’s physical reality can cause feelings of disorientation, depersonalization, and confusion. The following factors can contribute to derealization triggers in VR:
- Sensory Overload: VR systems rely on multiple sensory inputs, including visual, auditory, and haptic feedback, to create an immersive experience. However, this sensory overload can lead to an overwhelming feeling of detachment from one’s own body and surroundings.
- Virtual-Real Dissociation: The blurring of lines between the virtual and real worlds can lead to confusion and a loss of sense of self. Users may struggle to differentiate between what is real and what is part of the virtual environment, leading to derealization.
- Motion Sickness: VR technology often involves rapid and unpredictable movements, which can cause motion sickness and contribute to derealization. This can be particularly pronounced in users who are not accustomed to VR or who have a history of motion sickness.
- Disorientation: The 3D and 360-degree environments in VR can cause disorientation, as users may not have a fixed point of reference or familiar landmarks to orient themselves. This can exacerbate feelings of detachment and derealization.
- Stress and Anxiety: VR experiences can be highly immersive and intense, leading to stress and anxiety in some users. These emotions can further contribute to derealization episodes, especially if the user is already vulnerable to these experiences.
- Cognitive Load: The complex and rapidly changing environment in VR can place a high cognitive load on users, which can lead to mental fatigue and derealization. This is particularly true for VR experiences that require a lot of attention and concentration, such as gaming or simulation training.
Understanding these factors can help users, developers, and therapists identify and mitigate derealization triggers in VR. It is essential to develop strategies that minimize these triggers and ensure a safe and enjoyable VR experience for all users.
Common VR Scenarios That Can Cause Derealization
There are several common scenarios in virtual reality that can trigger feelings of derealization. These include:
- Motion sickness: One of the most common triggers for derealization in virtual reality is motion sickness. This can occur when the visual and physical sensations experienced in the virtual environment do not match, causing confusion and disorientation.
- Disorientation: Disorientation can occur when the user is unable to maintain a stable viewpoint or orientation within the virtual environment. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including fast movement, rapid changes in the environment, or conflicts between the user’s physical movements and the virtual environment.
- Sensory overload: Virtual reality can be a highly immersive experience, with a variety of sensory inputs vying for the user’s attention. This can sometimes lead to sensory overload, which can cause feelings of disorientation and derealization.
- Fatigue: Prolonged use of virtual reality can be physically and mentally exhausting, leading to fatigue and potentially triggering derealization symptoms.
- Anxiety or fear: Some users may experience anxiety or fear while using virtual reality, which can also trigger feelings of derealization. This can be particularly pronounced in scenarios that are particularly immersive or intense, such as horror or action games.
It is important to note that these triggers are not exhaustive, and that derealization can be caused by a variety of factors. However, understanding these common scenarios can help users to better anticipate and manage their experiences in virtual reality.
Physiological Triggers of Derealization
Sensory Overload
Virtual Reality (VR) experiences often involve multiple sensory inputs, including visual, auditory, and haptic stimuli. The intense and immersive nature of these inputs can sometimes lead to sensory overload, which is a known trigger for derealization. Sensory overload occurs when the brain is overwhelmed by the amount of incoming sensory information, making it difficult for the individual to process and interpret the information correctly.
This sensory overload can manifest in different ways depending on the individual and the VR experience. For example, in a VR environment with rapid movements and flashing lights, the visual system may become overloaded, leading to visual distortions and perceptual illusions. Similarly, in a VR environment with loud noises and sudden movements, the auditory and vestibular systems may become overloaded, leading to auditory and vestibular illusions.
Sensory overload can also affect the body’s natural balance and equilibrium, leading to disorientation and dizziness. This can be particularly problematic for individuals who are already prone to motion sickness or have vestibular disorders.
Understanding the potential for sensory overload in VR experiences is essential for individuals who are prone to derealization. It is crucial to take breaks and reduce the intensity of the VR experience to prevent sensory overload and maintain a sense of reality. Additionally, it is essential to monitor the individual’s responses to the VR experience and adjust the settings accordingly to prevent triggers of derealization.
Motion Sickness and Vestibular System
Motion sickness is a common trigger for derealization in virtual reality environments. It occurs when the vestibular system, which is responsible for regulating balance and spatial orientation, experiences conflicting signals. This can happen when the visual system, which provides information about the environment, conflicts with the vestibular system, which provides information about movement and orientation.
The vestibular system consists of the inner ear and the brain regions that process its signals. The inner ear contains the semicircular canals, which detect rotational movement, and the otolith organs, which detect linear acceleration. The signals from these organs are sent to the brain, where they are integrated with other sensory information to produce a sense of balance and spatial orientation.
In virtual reality, the visual system can provide conflicting information about movement and orientation, leading to disorientation and motion sickness. For example, if the user’s visual system perceives a virtual environment as stationary, while their vestibular system perceives them as moving, this can lead to disorientation and derealization.
Several factors can contribute to motion sickness in virtual reality, including the level of immersion, the duration of exposure, and the type of virtual environment. Additionally, individual differences in sensitivity to motion sickness can play a role in whether or not a user experiences derealization.
Understanding the physiological triggers of motion sickness and derealization is essential for designing virtual reality environments that minimize these effects. By incorporating features such as reduced motion, locomotion options, and adjustable levels of immersion, designers can create more comfortable and enjoyable virtual reality experiences for users.
Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalances
Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are two physiological triggers that can cause derealization in virtual reality (VR) users. These triggers can lead to feelings of disorientation, dizziness, and disembodiment, which can negatively impact the user’s experience in the virtual environment.
Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to a lack of water and electrolytes. This can cause a range of symptoms, including dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. In VR, dehydration can exacerbate feelings of disorientation and disembodiment, making it difficult for users to fully immerse themselves in the virtual environment.
Electrolyte Imbalances
Electrolytes are essential for maintaining the proper functioning of the body’s cells and organs. They help regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve function. Electrolyte imbalances can occur when the body has too much or too little of certain electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, or calcium. In VR, electrolyte imbalances can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and disorientation, which can detract from the user’s experience in the virtual environment.
It is important for VR users to stay hydrated and maintain proper electrolyte balance to avoid derealization triggers. This can be achieved by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich beverages, such as sports drinks, and by monitoring electrolyte levels through blood tests or urine tests.
It is also important for VR developers to consider the impact of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances on user experience. By incorporating features that encourage users to stay hydrated and maintain proper electrolyte balance, developers can help mitigate the risk of derealization triggers and enhance the overall user experience in virtual environments.
Psychological Triggers of Derealization
Anxiety and Panic Disorders
Virtual reality technology, while offering immersive experiences, can also trigger psychological reactions in users, including derealization. This phenomenon, where users feel detached from reality, can be particularly problematic for individuals with anxiety and panic disorders. In this section, we will explore the relationship between derealization and these mental health conditions.
- Anxiety Disorders: Individuals with anxiety disorders often experience excessive worry and fear that can lead to feelings of detachment from reality. The immersive nature of virtual reality may amplify these feelings, causing individuals to feel overwhelmed and disconnected from their surroundings. Common anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
- Panic Disorder: Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks that cause intense fear or discomfort. These attacks can be triggered by specific situations or environments, and the disorienting nature of virtual reality may exacerbate these triggers. During a panic attack, individuals may experience derealization symptoms such as depersonalization and confusion, further reinforcing their detachment from reality.
- Hyperventilation: In some cases, hyperventilation can contribute to derealization in individuals with anxiety or panic disorders. Rapid breathing or hyperventilation can lead to changes in perception, including lightheadedness, dizziness, and tingling sensations. These physical sensations can create a disconnect between the individual’s body and their surroundings, intensifying feelings of derealization.
- Sensory Overload: Virtual reality environments often rely on immersive audio and visual stimuli to create a realistic experience. For individuals with anxiety or panic disorders, this sensory overload can be overwhelming and contribute to feelings of detachment from reality. The heightened sensory input may push their nervous system beyond its capacity, leading to derealization symptoms.
- Avoidance Behaviors: Individuals with anxiety or panic disorders may avoid situations or environments that trigger their symptoms, including virtual reality experiences. However, avoidance behaviors can limit their exposure to potentially therapeutic experiences and reinforce their detachment from reality.
Understanding the relationship between anxiety and panic disorders and derealization in virtual reality can help mental health professionals provide more targeted support and guidance for individuals experiencing these psychological reactions. It is essential to address the underlying mental health conditions while also addressing the derealization symptoms in a comprehensive treatment plan.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person has been through a traumatic event. This condition is characterized by a range of symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts about the traumatic event.
Research has shown that people with PTSD are more likely to experience derealization while using virtual reality technology. This is because the immersive nature of VR can trigger feelings of dissociation and detachment from reality, which are common symptoms of PTSD.
Studies have found that exposure to traumatic content in VR can worsen symptoms of PTSD, particularly in individuals with a history of trauma. For example, a study conducted by the University of California, San Francisco, found that individuals with a history of trauma who were exposed to a VR simulation of a traumatic event experienced higher levels of PTSD symptoms than those who did not participate in the VR experience.
It is important for individuals with a history of PTSD to be aware of the potential triggers associated with virtual reality technology. By understanding these triggers, individuals can take steps to avoid or limit their exposure to potentially triggering content.
In addition, developers and designers of virtual reality technology should be mindful of the potential for their products to trigger PTSD symptoms in some users. By incorporating warning labels and providing resources for users to access support, developers can help ensure that their products are safe and accessible for all users.
Overall, it is important for individuals with PTSD to approach virtual reality technology with caution and to be aware of the potential triggers associated with this technology. By taking proactive steps to manage their symptoms and seek support when needed, individuals can help ensure that their experience with virtual reality is a positive and empowering one.
Substance Abuse and Withdrawal
Substance abuse and withdrawal can be significant triggers for derealization. When a person consumes substances such as alcohol or drugs, they can experience changes in perception, altered reality, and hallucinations. These experiences can be thrilling and provide a sense of escape, but they can also contribute to the development of derealization.
In some cases, individuals may continue to abuse substances to avoid or cope with derealization symptoms. This can create a vicious cycle, where substance abuse worsens the symptoms, leading to more substance abuse. It is crucial to understand that substance abuse can lead to physical and psychological dependence, which can exacerbate derealization symptoms during withdrawal.
During withdrawal, the body and brain must adjust to functioning without the substance. This process can cause a range of physical and psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and increased stress levels. Derealization symptoms may also intensify during this time, as the brain attempts to readjust to its natural state.
To prevent derealization triggers during substance abuse and withdrawal, it is essential to seek professional help and support. Treatment options may include medical interventions, such as medication, as well as therapy and counseling to address the underlying psychological factors contributing to the substance abuse and derealization.
Preventing and Managing Derealization in Virtual Reality
Best Practices for Minimizing Triggers
- Ensure proper VR headset adjustment: A snug fit and proper alignment of the headset can help reduce triggers.
- Gradual exposure: Gradually increase VR exposure to avoid overwhelming the brain.
- Maintain posture: Maintaining a good posture while using VR can prevent neck strain and other physical discomforts that may lead to derealization.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated can help alleviate symptoms associated with derealization.
- Rest breaks: Taking regular breaks during VR sessions can help prevent mental and physical fatigue, which can contribute to derealization.
- Balanced diet: Consuming a balanced diet can help maintain overall health and well-being, which can reduce the likelihood of derealization triggers.
- Mental preparation: Being mentally prepared for the VR experience can help manage expectations and reduce the chances of triggers.
- Avoiding certain content: Individuals who are prone to derealization should avoid content that may exacerbate their symptoms, such as intense visual or auditory stimuli.
- Seeking professional help: Individuals who experience frequent derealization should consider seeking professional help from a healthcare provider or therapist who specializes in VR-related issues.
Coping Strategies for Derealization Episodes
When experiencing derealization episodes in virtual reality, it is important to have coping strategies in place to help manage the symptoms and prevent them from becoming overwhelming. Some effective coping strategies include:
- Taking breaks: Taking breaks from virtual reality experiences can help prevent derealization episodes from occurring. Taking a break can help reduce the intensity of the symptoms and give the brain a chance to adjust to the new environment.
- Focusing on the present moment: One way to manage derealization episodes is to focus on the present moment and avoid getting caught up in thoughts about the past or future. This can help reduce feelings of disorientation and detachment.
- Deep breathing: Deep breathing exercises can help calm the body and mind, reducing feelings of anxiety and disorientation. Taking slow, deep breaths can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which can help counteract the effects of the sympathetic nervous system during derealization episodes.
- Grounding techniques: Grounding techniques can help bring a person back to reality and reduce feelings of detachment. Some effective grounding techniques include focusing on physical sensations, such as the feel of the chair or the temperature of the room, or engaging in a task that requires full attention, such as solving a math problem or completing a puzzle.
- Seeking support: It can be helpful to seek support from a therapist or counselor who specializes in treating anxiety and panic disorders. They can provide guidance on coping strategies and help individuals develop a plan for managing derealization episodes.
It is important to remember that derealization episodes can be distressing, but they are not permanent. With the right coping strategies and support, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms and continue to enjoy virtual reality experiences.
Seeking Professional Help
When experiencing derealization in virtual reality, seeking professional help can be an effective strategy to manage and prevent future occurrences. Mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, can provide guidance and support to individuals dealing with derealization triggers in virtual reality environments.
Here are some reasons why seeking professional help can be beneficial:
- Expertise: Mental health professionals have the expertise and training to understand the complexities of derealization and can provide personalized advice and treatment plans tailored to the individual’s needs.
- Objective perspective: These professionals can offer an objective perspective on the situation, helping individuals identify patterns and triggers that may be contributing to their derealization experiences.
- Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches can be helpful in addressing the underlying psychological factors that contribute to derealization in virtual reality.
- Medication: In some cases, medication may be recommended to help manage symptoms of derealization, such as anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants.
- Coping strategies: Mental health professionals can teach individuals various coping strategies to manage derealization triggers in virtual reality, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or grounding methods.
- Prevention: By working with a mental health professional, individuals can learn how to prevent derealization episodes from occurring in the future, allowing them to enjoy virtual reality experiences without fear of discomfort or distress.
It is essential to find a mental health professional who is knowledgeable about virtual reality and its potential effects on mental health. They can provide a supportive environment to discuss concerns, explore potential triggers, and develop strategies for managing derealization in virtual reality environments.
Future Research and Developments in Virtual Reality and Derealization
Ongoing Studies and Initiatives
Several ongoing studies and initiatives are currently exploring the relationship between virtual reality and derealization. These efforts aim to enhance our understanding of the triggers that contribute to derealization and to develop effective interventions for mitigating the impact of this phenomenon. Some of the key ongoing studies and initiatives include:
- Neuroimaging Studies: Researchers are employing neuroimaging techniques, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG), to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying derealization in virtual reality environments. These studies hope to shed light on the specific brain regions and neural processes involved in derealization, which may inform the development of targeted interventions.
- Virtual Reality Therapy: Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the efficacy of virtual reality therapy in treating derealization and related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety. These studies involve the use of virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) to help individuals confront and desensitize themselves to the triggers that cause derealization, with the goal of reducing the intensity and frequency of these experiences.
- Development of Safer Virtual Reality Environments: Researchers are exploring ways to create virtual reality environments that minimize the risk of derealization and other adverse effects. This includes the development of new design principles and guidelines for virtual reality experiences, as well as the use of biometric monitoring and real-time feedback systems to alert users when they are at risk of derealization.
- Virtual Reality and Psychedelic Research: Some studies are investigating the potential synergy between virtual reality and psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin and ketamine, in the context of treating mental health disorders. These studies aim to understand how virtual reality may enhance or interact with the therapeutic effects of these substances, and whether this combination could provide a novel approach to managing derealization and other symptoms.
- Personalized Medicine and AI-Assisted Interventions: Researchers are exploring the potential of personalized medicine and artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of derealization. This includes the development of AI-assisted interventions that can identify individuals at risk of derealization based on their unique physiological and psychological profiles, as well as the use of machine learning algorithms to tailor virtual reality experiences to the specific needs and preferences of each user.
These ongoing studies and initiatives reflect the growing interest in understanding and addressing derealization triggers in virtual reality. As research progresses, it is likely that we will gain a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to derealization and develop more effective strategies for mitigating its impact on users.
Potential Technological Advancements to Reduce Triggers
Virtual reality technology has advanced significantly in recent years, and researchers are continuously exploring ways to improve the user experience while minimizing the risk of derealization. Some potential technological advancements that could reduce derealization triggers include:
Adaptive Content and Environments
Adaptive content and environments could be developed to adjust to an individual’s personal preferences and needs. This would involve collecting data on a user’s behavior and physiological responses during virtual reality experiences, which could then be used to tailor the content and environment to their preferences. By creating a more personalized experience, users may be less likely to experience derealization.
Improved Feedback and Interaction
Virtual reality systems could be designed to provide users with more feedback and interaction during their experiences. This could include haptic feedback, which would allow users to feel physical sensations during virtual interactions, or improved hand tracking, which would enable more natural and intuitive interactions with virtual objects. By increasing the level of immersion and interactivity, users may be less likely to experience derealization.
Cognitive Training and Education
Cognitive training and education could be integrated into virtual reality experiences to help users develop coping strategies for derealization. This could involve teaching users about the nature of derealization and how to recognize and manage symptoms, as well as providing them with techniques for reducing stress and anxiety. By empowering users with knowledge and skills, they may be better equipped to manage derealization triggers in virtual reality.
Ethical Considerations
It is important to consider the ethical implications of these potential technological advancements. For example, the collection of data on users’ behavior and physiological responses raises questions about privacy and data security. Additionally, the use of cognitive training and education in virtual reality experiences raises questions about the potential for exploitation or manipulation. Researchers and developers must carefully consider these ethical concerns as they continue to develop virtual reality technology.
Importance of Ethical Considerations in VR Development
As the use of virtual reality (VR) technology continues to grow, it is important to consider the ethical implications of its development and implementation. The potential for VR to trigger derealization experiences in users highlights the need for ethical considerations in VR development.
One key ethical consideration is the potential for VR to exacerbate existing mental health conditions. Individuals with a history of derealization or depersonalization may be particularly vulnerable to triggering episodes while using VR technology. It is important for developers to consider the potential impact of their products on these individuals and to ensure that their technology is used responsibly.
Another ethical consideration is the potential for VR to create new forms of addiction or dependence. As with any technology, it is important to consider the potential for VR to become addictive and to develop strategies to mitigate this risk. This includes developing responsible use guidelines and providing users with information on how to use VR technology in a safe and healthy manner.
Additionally, the use of VR in therapy and rehabilitation settings requires careful consideration of ethical implications. It is important to ensure that the use of VR in these settings is evidence-based and that it is used in a manner that is respectful of patients’ rights and dignity.
Overall, the importance of ethical considerations in VR development cannot be overstated. As the technology continues to advance, it is crucial that developers prioritize responsible use and consider the potential impact of their products on users’ mental health and well-being.
FAQs
1. What is derealization?
Derealization is a dissociative experience characterized by a feeling of detachment from one’s surroundings, body, or self. It can manifest as a feeling of unreality, depersonalization, or being detached from one’s surroundings.
2. What are some common triggers for derealization episodes?
Derealization episodes can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, trauma, fatigue, and certain medications. Additionally, certain activities, such as prolonged periods of immersion in virtual reality environments, can also trigger derealization episodes.
3. Can virtual reality trigger derealization?
Yes, spending long periods of time in virtual reality environments can trigger derealization in some individuals. This is thought to be due to the intense sensory stimulation and immersion in the virtual environment, which can cause a disruption in the brain’s ability to distinguish between the virtual world and the real world.
4. How can I avoid derealization while using virtual reality?
To avoid derealization while using virtual reality, it is important to take regular breaks and avoid spending extended periods of time in the virtual environment. It is also helpful to stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and engage in regular physical activity to help regulate your body and mind.
5. What should I do if I experience derealization while using virtual reality?
If you experience derealization while using virtual reality, it is important to take immediate steps to ground yourself in the real world. This can include taking a break from the virtual environment, engaging in deep breathing or other relaxation techniques, and focusing on your surroundings and body. If the symptoms persist, it is important to seek medical attention.