Multiple personalities, also known as alters or dissociative identities, are believed to be a response to severe and prolonged trauma, especially during early childhood. Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is the diagnosis used when a person experiences the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states, each with its own way of perceiving and interacting with the world. However, it's important to note that DID is a relatively rare disorder, and not everyone who experiences trauma will develop dissociative identities.
The exact prevalence of DID is challenging to determine due to various factors, including misdiagnosis, underreporting, and limited awareness of the disorder. However, studies suggest that DID affects around 1% of the general population, with higher rates found among clinical populations with a history of severe trauma, such as childhood abuse or neglect.
Regarding the resolution of dissociative identities, it is not guaranteed that they will automatically go away once the trauma ends. Dissociative identities serve as a coping mechanism to help individuals survive and cope with overwhelming experiences. As a result, the identities may persist beyond the traumatic event.
Recovery from DID often requires specialized and comprehensive treatment, such as psychotherapy, particularly approaches like Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). The goal of therapy is to address the underlying trauma, integrate the different identities, and help the person develop healthier coping mechanisms.
The healing process can be lengthy and complex, as it involves working through past traumas and developing a cohesive sense of self. With proper treatment and support, some individuals with DID can experience significant improvements in their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. However, complete integration of dissociative identities may not be achievable for everyone, and the focus of therapy is often on increasing communication and cooperation among the different parts of the person's identity. The ultimate goal is to improve the person's overall functioning and well-being.