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The Stranger in the Mirror: The Hidden Epidemic of Dissociative Identity Disorder

Alex Foster

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Published in The Stranger In The Mirror: The Hidden Epidemic

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Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID),formerly known as multiple personality disorder, is a complex and often misunderstood mental illness. It is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states that recurrently take control of the individual's behavior. These identities may have different names, ages, genders, and even physical characteristics.

The Stranger in the Mirror: The Hidden Epidemic

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DID is a severe form of dissociation, a mental process that involves the detachment or compartmentalization of thoughts, memories, feelings, or sense of identity. In DID, this dissociation is so severe that it creates distinct identities that can take control of the individual's behavior.

Symptoms of Dissociative Identity Disorder

The symptoms of DID can vary widely from person to person, but some of the most common include:

The presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states
Recurrent episodes of amnesia, during which the individual cannot remember important personal information
Depersonalization, or feeling detached from one's own body or mind
Derealization, or feeling detached from the outside world
Identity confusion or fragmentation
Mood swings or emotional instability
Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
Difficulty maintaining relationships
Problems at work or school

Causes of Dissociative Identity Disorder

The exact cause of DID is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the risk factors for DID include:

Childhood trauma, such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
Neglect or abandonment
Witnessing violence or other traumatic events
Having a family history of DID or other dissociative disorders

Treatment of Dissociative Identity Disorder

There is no cure for DID, but treatment can help to manage the symptoms and improve the individual's quality of life. Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and self-help strategies.

Psychotherapy is the main treatment for DID. It can help the individual to understand their disorder, identify and integrate their different identities, and develop coping mechanisms for managing the symptoms. Medication may also be helpful to manage symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings.

Self-help strategies can also be helpful for managing DID. These strategies may include:

Keeping a journal to track moods, thoughts, and behaviors
Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing
Getting regular exercise
Eating a healthy diet
Getting enough sleep
Avoiding alcohol and drugs

The Hidden Epidemic of Dissociative Identity Disorder

DID is a hidden epidemic, affecting an estimated 1% of the population. However, many people with DID go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with other mental illnesses such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

The stigma surrounding DID can make it difficult for people to seek help. Many people with DID are afraid of being judged or labeled as "crazy." This stigma can prevent people from getting the treatment they need to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Dissociative Identity Disorder is a complex and often misunderstood mental illness. However, with proper treatment, people with DID can learn to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.

If you think you may have DID, it is important to seek professional help. A qualified mental health professional can diagnose DID and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

The Stranger in the Mirror: The Hidden Epidemic

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