The treatment and outcomes for individuals with dissociative identity disorder (DID), previously known as multiple personality disorder (MPD), can vary widely depending on the individual's unique experiences, symptoms, and the quality of treatment they receive. Effective treatment typically involves long-term therapy with a mental health professional who specializes in dissociative disorders and trauma.
The primary goal of treatment for DID is not to merge or eliminate alter personalities to revert to a single "original" personality but to help the person develop communication, cooperation, and co-consciousness among the different alters. The aim is to create a more functional, cooperative internal system where the person can work together with their alters to improve daily functioning and reduce distress.
Therapy for DID often involves the following approaches:
Trauma-focused therapy: Addressing and processing past traumatic experiences is a crucial aspect of DID treatment. This may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), or other trauma-focused interventions.
Integration and cooperation: The goal is not to eliminate alters but to work towards greater communication, cooperation, and mutual understanding among them. This process is known as integration, where the alters become more aware of each other and may share memories, emotions, and experiences more effectively.
Stabilization and symptom management: Helping the person manage symptoms such as dissociation, amnesia, and mood disturbances is essential for improving daily functioning and quality of life.
Skills training: Providing coping skills and strategies for managing stress, emotions, and dissociation can be beneficial.
Supportive therapy: Building a therapeutic alliance with the person is crucial, as trust and rapport are vital for effective treatment.
It's important to note that the treatment process for DID can be lengthy and challenging due to the complexity of the disorder. Not everyone with DID will experience full integration of their alters, and the level of integration varies among individuals. Some people with DID may achieve co-consciousness and a more integrated internal system, while others may experience varying degrees of cooperation and communication among their alters.
Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to improve the person's overall functioning, reduce distress and impairment caused by the disorder, and help them lead fulfilling lives. Each person's journey to recovery is unique, and therapy is tailored to the individual's specific needs and goals.