What is DID? The DSM-5-TR describes Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) as an identity disruption where two or more unique personality states intermittently gained control of the behavior of a person. This disturbance entails significant continuity in the sense of self, memory, consciousness and perception. People do unintentionally tend to have amnesia regarding ordinary events, personal details, or other traumatic experiences that go beyond the scope of normal forgetfulness (American Psychiatric Association, 2022). Etiology (Causes) Severe childhood trauma: Most individuals with DID report chronic physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in early childhood. Defense mechanism: Dissociation acts as a coping response to unbearable trauma by compartmentalizing experiences. Psychological and social factors: Attachment disturbances, lack of emotional support, and early neglect contribute to vulnerability (Sar et al., 2017). Prognosis Through a regular therapy and support, patients with DID will be able to attain identity integration, functioning, as well as decreased dissociation. It is a slow process of improvement but through early diagnosis and trauma-informed care, it is recoverable. Treatment Options Psychotherapy (main treatment): Focuses on integrating identities, processing trauma, and improving emotional regulation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) help with emotion control and coping skills. Medications: Used only to manage co-occurring symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety). Long-term therapy is often required for stabilization and trauma resolution. Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) Prevalence DID affects about 1–1.5% of the general population worldwide (APA, 2022). It occurs more frequently in women and is often diagnosed in adulthood, though symptoms usually begin in childhood. Symptoms Two or more distinct identities or personality states Gaps in memory and time loss (dissociative amnesia) Depersonalization or derealization Sudden changes in behavior, voice, or skills Distress or impairment in social, occupational, or daily functioning Famous cases such as “Sybil” (Shirley Mason) and “The Three Faces of Eve” helped bring DID into public awareness, though modern clinicians stress avoiding sensationalized portrayals. Interesting Fact https://www.ices.on.ca/news-releases/one-in-20-ontario-youth-diagnosed-with-adhd-and-many-prescribed-an-antipsychotic-despite-no-other-mental-health-diagnosis-study/ REFERENCES American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.; DSM-5-TR). Şar, V., Dorahy, M. J., & Krüger, C. (2017). Revisiting the etiological aspects of dissociative identity disorder: a biopsychosocial perspective. Psychology research and behavior management, 137-146. https://doi.org/10.2147/prbm.s113743