Why do I sometimes think people I love are strangers?

Have you ever looked at someone you love and suddenly felt like they were a stranger? It’s a strange and unsettling experience that many people go through at times. There are actually several reasons why this can happen.

One common cause is a phenomenon called depersonalization. This is when you feel detached from yourself and your surroundings, almost like you’re watching things happen from outside your body. During episodes of depersonalization, familiar people and places can seem unfamiliar or unreal. It’s often triggered by stress, anxiety, or trauma.

Another potential reason is a condition called Capgras syndrome. People with this rare disorder believe their loved ones have been replaced by identical-looking imposters. It’s usually caused by brain injuries or illnesses that affect how we recognize and connect emotions to familiar faces.

Sometimes medication side effects can make you feel emotionally numb or disconnected from others. Certain antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and other medications may cause this as a side effect.

Relationship issues can also lead to feelings of estrangement. If you’re going through a rough patch with someone or feeling emotionally distant, they may start to seem unfamiliar to you. Your brain is essentially adjusting to seeing them in a new light.

Lack of sleep, extreme stress, or burnout can mess with your perception too. When you’re exhausted or overwhelmed, your brain doesn’t process information normally. This can make even close loved ones seem strange or unfamiliar.

Depression is another culprit. It often causes emotional numbness and detachment from others. You may look at people you care about and feel nothing, even though you know intellectually that you love them.

If you’re experiencing this regularly, it’s worth talking to a doctor or therapist. They can help determine if there’s an underlying issue and suggest ways to feel more connected. Usually, these episodes are temporary. With time and support, you can rebuild that sense of familiarity and closeness with your loved ones.