Dissociative Personality Disorder
Mental health awareness
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Most sufferers of this condition have been reported to being victims of severe physical, mental or sexual abuse, which usually occurs throughout their childhood, although can last a lot longer.
Those with DID may also have post traumatic symptoms (nightmares, flashbacks, startled responses) or the actual mental disorder itself - PTSD. Studies show that in most patients, DID is found to be more common in those who are biologically related to one another.
Treatments
There is no medication prescribed for those with this disorder, although medication like anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs can be prescribed in order to control the symptoms of the condition, depression being a common one.
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Key Words
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a type of psychotherapy that looks at how individuals feel about themselves, others and the world, whilst looking at how what they do affects feelings and thoughts. CBT is useful as it allows individuals to make the connection that anything they do, think and feel can help when making changes, which then later affects the way they think and feel which can essentially make them feel better.
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Frequently Asked Questions
DID stands for dissociative identity disorder which is the correct term but was formally known as multiple personality disorder, and is known as many other terms.
Can DID be prevented?
It may not be possible in being able to prevent DID, although it may be helpful in starting treatment as soon as the symptoms start arising, whilst its also a good idea to have immediate intervention after a traumatic experience so it can help with reducing the risk of one developing the disorder.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of DID are similar to those of PTSD, substance abuse and other mental health disorders. Below is a small list on what the symptoms to this disorder may be:
- changing the levels of functioning
(functioning at a high standard to almost disabled)
- severe headaches and pain to other parts of the body
- suicide attempts or self injury
- amnesia or a sense of "lost time"
- unexplained changes in both sleep and eating patterns
- depression or mood swings