What is dissociative identity disorder, and how does it affect teens? Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a complex mental health condition in which a person has multiple distinct identities or personality states, also known as alters. These alters can have their own unique characteristics, behaviors, and memories. This disorder often develops as a coping mechanism for those who have experienced severe trauma during childhood, such as abuse or neglect. When teenagers experience such trauma, their developing brains may not be able to process the events in a healthy way, leading to the development of DID.
While this condition can disrupt teens’ lives, treatment is available. Contact HillsidesCares at 323.641.4842 today to discover how our dissociative disorder treatment in Los Angeles can help your teen recover.
What Is Dissociative Identity Disorder?
What is dissociative identity disorder? Dissociative identity disorder (DID), formerly known as multiple personality disorder, is a complex psychological condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities within an individual. Each identity may have its own name, personal history, and characteristics, including differences in voice, gender, mannerisms, and even physical attributes such as the need for eyeglasses.
Individuals with DID often experience memory gaps beyond normal forgetfulness, which can include periods where they do not recall events, personal information, or trauma. This disorder is thought to stem from severe and prolonged trauma experienced during childhood, particularly persistent emotional, physical, or sexual abuse.
Signs and Symptoms of Dissociative Identity Disorder in Teens
DID can manifest differently in each individual, but there are some common signs and symptoms to look out for in teens. These may include:
- Memory gaps or lapses, especially surrounding traumatic events
- Feeling detached from one’s own body or surroundings
- Frequent and unexplained headaches or other physical symptoms
- Changes in personality, behavior, and interests
- Hearing voices or experiencing other hallucinations
While these symptoms may also be present in other mental health conditions, it is important to pay attention if they are accompanied by a history of trauma. If you notice your teen exhibiting some of these signs and suspect they may have DID, it is crucial
Dangers of Dissociative Identity Disorder in Teens
In teenagers, the manifestations of DID can be particularly distressing and disruptive. Adolescents are already grappling with significant changes and challenges associated with this developmental stage. The addition of DID can significantly complicate their ability to function effectively in their daily life and can lead to:
- Academic difficulties due to memory gaps or the interference of alternate identities
- Social isolation resulting from unpredictable shifts in behavior or personality
- Increased risk of self-harm or suicide due to emotional distress and confusion
- Strained relationships with family, friends, and peers
- Substance abuse as a coping mechanism for traumatic memories and experiences
Fortunately, effective treatment is available to help teens living with DID. Psychotherapy, particularly trauma-focused therapy, can help individuals understand and cope with their traumatic experiences while also working towards integrating their various identities.
Benefits of Dissociative Disorder Treatment
The good news is that effective treatment is available for dissociative identity disorder. At HillsidesCares, our dissociative disorder treatment program in Los Angeles provides comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs of each client. Here are some of the benefits of treatment:
- Improved understanding and management of trauma symptoms and triggers
- Enhanced coping skills to deal with dissociation, emotional distress, and other challenges
- Improved communication between different identities to promote integration and co-consciousness
- Increased sense of self-awareness and identity development
- Support for family members and loved ones to better understand DID and provide effective support during the recovery process
If you believe your teen may be struggling with dissociative identity disorder, do not hesitate to reach out for help.
Call HillsidesCares Now
If you or your teenager is struggling with symptoms of dissociative identity disorder, please reach out to HillsidesCares. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care that can help pave the way for recovery and improved quality of life. Contact us at 323.641.4842 now.