Dissociative Identity Disorder (D.I.D)

by Samantha De Bono

When faced with overwhelmingly traumatic situations from which there is no physical escape, it is understandable that a person may resort to "getting away" in his/her head. "Switching" is the term used for changing between "personality states" and this may occur if/when the person is in anxious anticipation of that pain or when thoughts, feelings and memories of the traumatic experiences recur, so even after the traumatic circumstances are long past, the left-over pattern of defensive dissociation remains.

Dissociative Identity Disorder (D.I.D) is an extremely effective defence against acute physical and emotional trauma, however, it can lead to serious dysfunction in work, social, and daily activities. Feelings of confusion and being out of control can also have an extremely negative effect on your wellbeing. It is not unusual for those with D.I.D to feel isolated or gripped in desperation, caused by secrets they feel too afraid or embarrassed to share, for fear of being misunderstood or judged.

As a counsellor trained in working with D.I.D, I understand the need for "the system" and it would not be my aim to remove this effective defence. Moreover, counselling is a safe, confidential and non-judgemental way of filling in the blank areas and making sense of the confusion that D.I.D brings, with a view to you being able to manage your life more effectively and in a way that works for you.