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Once considered multiple personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a complex mental health condition that continues to be shrouded in misunderstanding. Affecting a small percentage of the population, DID is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities or “alters” within a single individual.
“Each alter can have their own unique name, age, gender, personality traits, behaviors, memories, perceptions, and ways of interacting with the world,” explains Amber McGregor, doctor of education and clinical director of 1st Priority Institute for Better Living in Colorado.
These distinct identities often emerge as a coping mechanism in response to severe, prolonged trauma experienced during childhood, particularly when a child’s sense of safety and security with primary caregivers is disrupted. This compartmentalization of the self allows individuals to mentally escape from overwhelming experiences.
Many medical terms have evolved or changed over the years to reflect advancements in medical knowledge or to reduce stigma. For example, what was once called consumption is now known to be tuberculosis. Hypochondria is now defined as illness anxiety disorder. ADHD is no longer called ADD. And drug addiction is now known as substance use disorder.
As understanding of this complex condition deepens, so too does the need for effective treatment strategies.
“One of the challenges associated with DID is that treatment options remain limited,” says William Buerger, clinical director of the dialectical behavior therapy for adolescents program at Montefiore Medical Center in New York.
Currently, there are no Empirically Supported Treatments specifically targeted to DID, though a variety of approaches are employed.
“Some therapists use medications to help with symptoms like anxiety or depression, while others may utilize psychodynamic or cognitive-behavioral therapies to explore the roots of the disorder and develop coping mechanisms,” adds Buerger.
Dr. Omar Fattal, system chief of behavioral health at NYC Health, emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care, stating, “Individuals with DID often have a history of severe trauma and may be distrustful of others, including therapists.”
Therefore, building a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is crucial for successful treatment.
