

Other people may not notice the shifts between personalities, as some people with DID may not display noticeable outward changes. However, the personalities may also work well together and help a person cope with everyday situations. When another personality takes control, a person may “wake up” in an unfamiliar place with no memory of how they got there. Many people do not get diagnosed until they are adults, meaning they might experience years of frightening symptoms without knowing why.Ī person’s alternate personalities may not always cooperate with each other. Living with DID can be frustrating, scary, and isolating.

DID can have a significant impact on mental health, relationships, and a person’s ability to work. People living with DID often refer to themselves as having alters or multiples. Once a person receives a correct diagnosis, treatment is an integral part of learning to live with DID. Some of the tests used for diagnosis include the dissociative disorder interview schedule and the Rorschach Inkblot method. Have amnesia or exhibit chaotic behavior that is not caused by alcohol or drug use.For example, in children when imaginary friends or playing pretend cannot explain the symptoms. Experience disturbances that cannot be considered part of any accepted cultural or religious practices.Have symptoms that cause significant distress in working and social environments.Have gaps in their memory of personal information and everyday events, as well as past traumatic events.Display two or more personalities (alters) that disrupt the person’s identity, behavior, awareness, memory, perception, cognition, or senses.Share on Pinterest If someone is diagnosed with DID, they will most likely be referred to a mental health specialist.īoth adults and children are diagnosed using criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition ( DSM-5).Ī doctor will also ask the person or a child’s caregiver about the symptoms they are experiencing, and will usually refer them to a mental health specialist.
