It's important to note that the terminology used to refer to this condition has evolved. The term "multiple personality disorder" is no longer used in the diagnostic criteria. Instead, it is referred to as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
If you encounter someone you believe may have DID or is experiencing significant dissociation, here are some essential steps to consider:
Educate yourself: Learn about DID from reliable sources. Understanding the condition and its complexities can help you be more empathetic and supportive.
Respect and acceptance: Treat the individual with respect, empathy, and understanding. Recognize that each identity is a part of the same person, and each identity has its own experiences and emotions.
Communication: If the person is open to discussing their experiences, listen actively and non-judgmentally. Communicate with each identity as you would with any other person, recognizing their unique needs and preferences.
Safety: If the person displays harmful behaviors or expresses thoughts of self-harm or harm to others, it's crucial to ensure their safety. Encourage them to seek professional help immediately.
Encourage professional help: Suggest that the person seeks assistance from a qualified mental health professional experienced in working with dissociative disorders. Therapists specializing in trauma and dissociation can help the individual navigate their experiences.
Avoid invalidation: Refrain from invalidating their experiences or trying to force them to change identities. Instead, encourage integration and cooperation among identities if that's the goal in therapy.
Respect identity preferences: If a specific identity prefers a different name or pronoun, respect their choice and address them accordingly.
Be patient and non-judgmental: Recovery from DID takes time, and healing is a gradual process. Be patient and non-judgmental as the person works through their experiences.
Support network: Encourage the person to build a support network of friends, family, or support groups that can offer understanding and encouragement.
Self-care: Taking care of yourself is crucial when supporting someone with a complex mental health condition. Seek support from others or professionals if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed.
Remember, while offering support is essential, individuals with DID should ultimately seek help from qualified professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment.