Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)
Overview
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is a complex mental health condition where a person has two or more distinct identities, also known as ‘Alters,’ ‘personalities,’ or ‘parts.’ Each may have its own name, voice, mannerisms, gender, memories, and opinions.
Some people with DID are aware of their Alters and co-exist with them, while others may not. When switching between identities (a process known as ‘dissociation’), a person may experience memory gaps and be unaware of what occurred during that time.
DID usually develops in response to severe childhood trauma as a coping mechanism. It was previously called ‘multiple personality disorder’ until 1984 when the name changed to reflect a deeper understanding of the condition.
DID isn’t the same as schizophrenia. While people with DID experience multiple identities, schizophrenia is primarily characterised by hallucinations and delusions without the presence of separate identities.
Signs and symptoms
DID presents differently for each person, with people having a range of symptoms which can appear at different times.
Common experiences include:
- Two or more distinct identities – some people have a few Alters, while others can have dozens or more.
- Time loss and memory gaps (dissociative amnesia) – forgetting important information, relationships or events. This can last minutes, hours or even years.
- Symptoms of complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) including flashbacks and emotional distress.
- Hearing voices, including internal dialogue between Alters.
- Headaches or dizziness, which can be linked to dissociation.
- ‘Co-consciousness’ – when more than one personality is present at the same time.
- Other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, eating disorders, self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
What does it feel like to live with DID?
If you have DID, you might experience:
- Feeling detached from reality, your emotions and sense of self.
- Gaps in your memory that make daily life frustrating or confusing.
- Feeling like a bystander, as if you are watching yourself from the outside.
- Struggling to control your thoughts, emotions, or behaviours.
How is DID diagnosed?
A psychiatrist or mental health professional diagnoses DID using the DSM-5 criteria:
- Two or more distinct identities, each with its own way of perceiving, relating to, and thinking about the environment and self.
- Amnesia must occur (memory gaps in daily life, personal history, or trauma).
- Significant distress or difficulty functioning in key areas of life.
- Symptoms are not part of ‘normal’ cultural or religious practices.
- Symptoms are not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance, i.e. drugs or alcohol, or a general medical condition, such as complex partial seizures.
Because DID shares symptoms with other conditions, diagnosis can take time.
What causes DID?
DID is often linked to stressful experiences and trauma, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, which usually occurs in childhood.
Dissociation serves as a protective mechanism, allowing a person to distance themselves from traumatic experiences mentally.
How is DID treated?
There is no cure for DID, but with treatment and support, people can manage symptoms and lead meaningful lives.
The primary treatment is long-term psychotherapy, where a therapist will guide the person through several stages of treatment, including:
- Stabilisation – managing symptoms and ensuring safety.
- Processing trauma – addressing past experiences and unhelpful beliefs.
- Building a fulfilling life – Strengthening relationships, coping strategies, and future goals.
Other approaches that may support recovery include:
- Medication – While there’s no specific medication for DID, antidepressants or anxiety medications may help manage co-occurring conditions.
- Hypnotherapy, EMDR, or movement therapy – These can help with processing trauma.
Help & Support
DID is rare, affecting about 1% of the population. Finding a mental health professional with experience in trauma and dissociation is essential. It may take time to find the right therapist, so persistence is important.
People with DID are at higher risk of suicide, making early intervention and ongoing support crucial. With proper treatment, many individuals can lead stable and fulfilling lives.
Next Steps
Experiencing dissociation can feel lonely and confusing, but you’re not alone.
If you think you or someone you know may have DID:
- Speak to a GP, psychiatrist, or psychologist for assessment and support.
- Ask your GP about a Mental Health Plan to access therapy and other resources.
- Join support groups or online communities to connect with others who understand.
If you or someone else is in immediate distress, call 000 or a crisis support service.
My Journey to Accepting My Dissociative Identity Disorder
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Real Story -My Journey to Accepting My Dissociative Identity Disorder. Read Now
Shazi Sheppard is like you
We’re People Like You – Podcast
Real Story -Shazi Sheppard is like you. Listen Now
My life with Dissociative Identity Disorder
SANE
Real Story -My life with Dissociative Identity Disorder. Read Now