Dissociative identity disorder: symptoms, causes & treatment

Dissociative identity disorder is a psychological condition in which a person has two or more distinct identities. The most common symptoms include confused memories, behavioral changes, and a lack of connection with one’s body or surroundings, among others. While there are no single causes, it is believed that traumatic childhood events and genetic alterations may increase the likelihood of developing this diagnosis.

What is dissociative identity disorder?

Dissociative identity disorder is a psychological condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personalities within the same individual. In a broader sense, those who suffer from this mental condition can experience different emotional states in short periods of time, which means they can radically change their personalities.

Individuals diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder often experience difficulties establishing social, professional, and familial relationships due to their prevailing emotional instability. According to the DSM-5, there are several diagnostic criteria for arriving at a correct evaluation. Below, we will present the most important ones:

• Presence of two or more identities.
• Memory Lagoon.
• Deterioration of labor, social, and emotional relationships.
• The disturbances cannot be explained by the ingestion of toxic substances or medications.
• The symptoms are not associated with the presence of other mental health disorders.

What are the symptoms of dissociative identity disorder?

There are certain behavioral, physical, and emotional signs that allow for the early detection of this problem. Having access to this information will increase the likelihood of developing effective strategies to provide relief. In this section, we will outline the most prevalent symptoms:

• Confused memories: Due to the multiple personalities that can be present in a condition of this magnitude, the person may experience confusion about past events. This is known as dissociative amnesia.
• Behavioral changes: impulsivity and difficulties coping with conflict situations can lead to social isolation or disruptive emotional changes.
• Lack of connection with the body or environment: often, depersonalization arises at specific moments when the person no longer recognizes themselves. Furthermore, feelings of strangeness emerge regarding their own body and the people who make up their closest circle.

Beyond the description provided, it’s important to understand that the isolated presence of any of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate dissociative identity disorder. Therefore, an evaluation should always be conducted by a mental health professional specializing in this condition, as factors such as age, sex, pre-existing medical conditions, and social and cultural context, among others, are considered.

What are the causes of dissociative identity disorder?

Dissociative identity disorder has certain origins that give rise to the symptoms described in the previous section. In the following items, we will show you some associated causes:

• Childhood Traumatic Events: Generally speaking, stressful situations from the past have a direct influence on present-day conflicts. In the case of this diagnosis, it’s important to know that there is an unconscious defense mechanism called dissociation, in which a part of the person avoids confronting the distress caused by a traumatic event. However, the effects of these experiences remain lodged in the mind and manifest as symptoms. Common childhood traumas include sexual abuse, rape, abandonment, the death of loved ones, family abuse, and physical and/or verbal violence, among others.
• Genetic alterations: although it is not a factor present in most of these cases, modifications in the synaptic connections within the central nervous system may manifest, which can be inherited from the person’s parents.

What is the treatment for dissociative identity disorder?

Beyond the complications caused by this psychological condition, there are some effective approaches that can improve quality of life. Here we will present the main treatments:

• Psychotherapy: Seeing a mental health professional can provide you with tools to cope with stress and/or anxiety in a more manageable way. In the case of dissociative identity disorder, therapy can help identify triggers for emotional changes, as well as improve emotional management skills when facing challenges.
• Psychiatric medication: Mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotics can all be effective for the most prominent symptoms. However, their use should be regulated by a qualified professional.
• Lifestyle changes: In some cases, it becomes necessary to implement healthy sleep hygiene, along with sports habits and spaces for social reintegration.

Conclusion

Dissociative identity disorder is a real and complex mental health condition. It may cause memory gaps, emotional shifts, and sudden changes in behavior that can be confusing or frightening. Most cases begin after severe childhood trauma, but treatment can bring stability, understanding, and hope. With therapy, support, and healthy habits, many people learn to manage their symptoms and live a more peaceful life. Even though the journey may take time, every small step helps the person feel safer, stronger, and more connected to themselves. With the right help, daily life can slowly become easier and more balanced.

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FAQs

1. Can someone with dissociative identity disorder live a normal life?

Yes, many people can live a stable and meaningful life with the right treatment. Therapy helps manage emotional changes, improve memory, and reduce stress. Support from family, friends, and mental health professionals also plays an important role. With time, the person can learn to understand their identities and work with them more calmly. A steady routine, good sleep, and safe environments also make daily life easier. Many people discover strengths they didn’t know they had and build healthier relationships.

2. How is dissociative identity disorder diagnosed?

A trained mental health professional uses tests, interviews, and DSM-5 criteria to confirm dissociative identity disorder. Diagnosis takes time because symptoms may look like PTSD, bipolar disorder, or anxiety disorders. Doctors look at memory gaps, identity changes, and dissociation episodes before making a final decision. They may also talk to family members or review past medical history. A careful diagnosis helps make sure the person gets the correct treatment and support.

3. Is dissociative identity disorder the same as schizophrenia?

No. They are very different conditions with different symptoms and causes. Schizophrenia involves hallucinations and delusions, while dissociative identity disorder involves identity switching and memory gaps. The two conditions require very different treatments. DID is usually linked to trauma, while schizophrenia has more biological roots. Understanding the difference helps people avoid confusion and reduces the stigma around both conditions.

4. Do people with dissociative identity disorder know they have other identities?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Some people are aware of their identities, while others learn about them through therapy or from others. Awareness may grow over time with treatment. Some identities may talk to each other internally, while others stay hidden for years. As trust builds in therapy, more identities may appear or start communicating. This process often helps the person understand their emotions better and feel less afraid of changes.

5. Can dissociative identity disorder be cured?

There is no full cure, but symptoms can be managed with the right treatment plan. Many people improve greatly with long-term therapy, trauma processing, and strong emotional support. Progress may take time, but it is possible for most individuals. The goal of treatment is not to “erase” identities but to help them work together in a safe and stable way. With support, people can learn to live with fewer dissociation episodes and more control over their daily lives.

References

1. American Psychiatric Association (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition). Arlington: Editorial Médica Panamericana.

Literature

• Basterra Gortari, V., Ruiz Ruiz, R., Pereda Eusa, N. (2013). Dissociative identity disorder: a case report. Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 3 (4), 31-36.
• González de Chávez, M. (2023). The fragmentation of identity in dissociation and psychosis. Journal of the Spanish Association of Neuropsychiatry, 43 (143), 19-35.