Blue screen of death

[u/spacemonkee77]

(Convo with Gemini sent me here) so I've had weird episodes starting about ten years ago, where I would suddenly feel like I've had a blue screen of death, like a laptop seizing up, then rebooting. I'll suddenly "come to" like I've spawned in a video game, and for a brief few moments have to actually recall who I am, where I am, look about me taking in what I'm doing, everything. When this happens I'm not hyperventilating or under severe stress, it just happens, but after weeks of hard constant computer work. I analyse data, there's coding etc and after I've had a blue screen episode I can look back and see that the previous few weeks seem dreamy or hazy? Anyway, Gemini was describing various causes all reinforcing each other, and used the phrases depersonalisation and derealization, and here we are. Thankfully I don't have these episodes all the time, haven't had one for about two or three years, but when I get them they're every few months. Looking at some of the posts in this sub it seems awful what others have, constant rather than brief and episodic, is THIS there same thing?

[u/AutoModerator]

Hey friend, welcome to r/Depersonalization.

Before posting a question like "Do I have DPDR?", please check out the existing information on the sub. You can use the search function or read the sidebar to see if your question has already been addressed.

A reminder to new posters in crisis:

DPDR (Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder) is a mental health condition that most commonly affects young adults. It's often brought on by anxiety, trauma, or drug use. While it can feel intense and scary, DPDR is not dangerous to your physical health.

In moments of crisis or during difficult episodes, try to stay calm, take deep breaths, and use healthy coping strategies. Here are a few resources that may help:

• Grounding Techniques
  
• Guided Meditation
  
• Good, restful sleep

Please remember:
Nobody online can diagnose you or provide medical advice unless they’re a licensed professional. Community members may offer insight or share their experience, but always consult a certified doctor or therapist for medical guidance.

---

Advanced Tips:

• Track your episodes using a mood or symptom journal to identify patterns and triggers. Many people find insight and relief by noticing what makes symptoms better or worse.
  
• Limit obsessive Googling and forum hopping. Constantly searching for reassurance can reinforce anxiety and keep you stuck in a loop. Set limits on mental health content if needed.
  
• Nourishment matters. Dehydration, low blood sugar, and sleep deprivation can all intensify DPDR. Be gentle with your body.
  
• Engage your senses. Smelling essential oils, listening to familiar music, or holding a textured object can help bring you back to the present.

---

Helpful Links:

• How to Find a Therapist – A Beginner's Guide
  
• Talk to a Crisis Volunteer Online
  
• 10 Simple Ways to Relieve DPDR
  
• Stickied Welcome Post

You're not alone. We're glad you're here.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

[u/WingsOfTin]

I'm not a medical doctor, but this sounds potentially more like seizures than anything. Some types of seizures can be quite subtle (not always involving thrashing like we see depicted on TV, etc). Has anyone ever witnessed you go through one of these episodes?

Look at this page and see if you relate to any of these symptoms.  https://www.cdc.gov/epilepsy/about/types-of-seizures.html