Table of Contents
How does psychotherapy work for dissociative identity disorder?
Psychotherapy is the primary treatment for dissociative disorders. This form of therapy, also known as talk therapy, counseling or psychosocial therapy, involves talking about your disorder and related issues with a mental health professional.
What is the key goal for psychological treatment of dissociative disorders?
Treatment of dissociative disorders usually consists of psychotherapy, with the goal of helping the person integrate different identities, and to gain control over the dissociative process and symptoms.
What do psychologists believe may be the cause of dissociative identity disorder?
Dissociative identity disorder (previously known as multiple personality disorder) is thought to be a complex psychological condition that is likely caused by many factors, including severe trauma during early childhood (usually extreme, repetitive physical, sexual, or emotional abuse).
Can someone with DID fully integrate?
The subjective experience of the person with DID is very real and the goal of treatment is to achieve fusion of each personality so the person can begin to function as an integrated whole.
How long can a dissociative episode last?
Periods of dissociation can last for a relatively short time (hours or days) or for much longer (weeks or months). It can sometimes last for years, but usually if a person has other dissociative disorders. Many people with a dissociative disorder have had a traumatic event during childhood.
How long does it take to treat dissociative identity disorder?
Treatment for DID consists primarily of individual psychotherapy and can last for an average of five to seven years in adults. Individual psychotherapy is the most widely used modality as opposed to family, group or couples therapy.
What is it like having Osdd?
In addition to dissociative effects and all five of the dissociative experiences people with DID or DDNOS/OSDD frequently also have symptoms of mood disorders e.g. depression or mania; anxiety and panic attacks; and almost always meet diagnostic criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder.
Does Abilify help with DID?
Levels of dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin are regulated with antipsychotic medications which can help alleviate some symptoms of DID. Some antipsychotic medications that may be prescribed to someone with DID include: Aripiprazole (Abilify) Olanzapine (Zyprexa)