Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a mental health condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states. Each identity has its own unique pattern of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Individuals with DID may feel like they are switching between these identities, or that different identities are taking control of their behavior. They may also have gaps in their memory.
It is important to remember that individuals with DID are not acting; they can not just “snap out of it.” If you know someone with DID, it is important to be patient and understanding. Here are some tips on what to say (and not say) to someone with DID:
Do:
-Acknowledge that their experience is real for them.
-Validate their feelings.
-Listen without judgment.
-Encourage them to seek professional help if they want it.
Choose a time when you’re both free and relaxed
When you’re both free and relaxed, it’s a good time to talk about DID. You can explain what it is, how it affects you, and how you’re dealing with it. It’s important to be open and honest about your condition, so that your partner can understand and support you.
Let them know that you care about them
One way to do this is simply by spending time with the person and getting to know them. Listen to their stories and experiences, without judgement or criticism. Showing genuine interest in their lives can go a long way in making the person feel valued and understood. It can also help build trust between you two, which is crucial for any healthy relationship.
Another way to show your support is by offering practical help when needed. This could involve anything from giving a ride somewhere to helping out with errands or chores. Just remember not to do anything that the person isn’t comfortable with – respect their boundaries at all times.
Finally, keep in mind that people with DID often have difficulty expressing s their feelings openly. So don’t be afraid to initiate conversations about topics that might be sensitive for them. This will give them an opportunity to share what’s going on inside, without feeling pressured or exposed in any way.
Offer to help look for providers
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID), you are likely feeling overwhelmed and may be wondering where to turn for help. One of the most important things you can do is find a qualified mental health professional who has experience treating DID. This can be a challenge, as there are relatively few providers who are knowledgeable about the condition. But there are steps you can take to find the right fit.
Here are some tips for finding a DID provider:
• Ask your primary care doctor or mental health professional for referrals. They may know of specialists in your area or be able to refer you to someone who has experience treating DID.
• Contact your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). They may have information about support groups and treatment providers in your area.
• Search online directories such as the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD) provider directory or the Sidran Institute Trauma and Dissociation Specialist Finder. Both of these directories allow you to search by location and type of specialist (e.g., therapist, psychiatrist, etc.).
Accompany them to their first appointment
This can be a difficult and overwhelming time for someone with DID, and having a supportive person by their side can make all the difference. You can help them find the right therapist and make sure they feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics. You can also provide emotional support throughout the treatment process.
Suggest getting started with teletherapy
Teletherapy is a great option for those who want to get started with therapy but may not be able to commit to in-person sessions. It can be a convenient and flexible way to receive treatment, and many people find it to be just as effective as traditional therapy. If you’re considering teletherapy, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, make sure you choose a therapist that you feel comfortable with and who seems like a good fit for you. You’ll be spending a lot of time talking with this person, so it’s important that you feel comfortable confiding in them. It’s also important to make sure they’re someone who is familiar with the issues you’re dealing with and can provide helpful guidance.
Once you’ve found a therapist, the next step is to decide what platform you’ll use for your sessions. There are many different options available, so take some time to research the different choices and decide which one will work best for you. Some platforms allow you to video chat with your therapist, while others simply provide audio-only options. Consider what would work best for you and your schedule before making a decision.
Finally, remember that teletherapy isn’t right for everyone. If you feel like traditional therapy would be more beneficial or if teletherapy isn’t working out well for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to your therapist and discuss other options.