There are distinct differences between Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and Borderline Personality Disorder (DID). There are many overlapping symptoms, and some therapists believe that all trauma survivors with DID are also BPD. I, however, do not hold that perspective. In my opinion, not all trauma survivors with DID are BPD. However, I will guess that the greater portion of DID'ers are also borderline. … [Read more...]
Depression and Dissociative Identity Disorder, part 2
Welcome to the second half of “Depression and Dissociative Identity Disorder”. The first seven tips have been previously posted. At this point in time, I will continue with the list of tips for how to specifically address chronic depression for trauma survivors with DID: 8. As the memories surface, feelings will also surface. Expressing genuine emotion is key to working through depression. Crying tears of … [Read more...]
Depression and Dissociative Identity Disorder, part 1
So you're depressed, and you're DID. That feels like a double whammy already, so what do you do now? Depression and DID go hand in hand for many trauma survivors. They are not the same diagnosis, but can be closely knitted together. When you are DID, you might have some parts that are depressed, while simultaneously having other parts that are not depressed. Dissociative walls and amnesiac barriers can … [Read more...]
Believing a Lie – the Foundation of Dissociation
What makes it difficult for trauma survivors with Dissociative Identity Disorder to know the truth? How easy is it to trick someone with DID with a lie? When are survivors lying to themselves? When does dissociation block out information to know the difference? When does pain, especially emotional pain, become the deciding factor in what survivors believe, regardless of truth? When does the viciousness … [Read more...]
Abandonment — A Painful, Tender Hurt for Dissociative Trauma Survivors
Abandonment is such a tender issue for trauma survivors. Most survivors with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID/MPD) and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) have had more than their fair share of genuine abandonment instances. For severe trauma survivors, abandonment would have been experienced over and over in various situations: Each time your parents or caregivers turned a blind eye to the sexual abuse … [Read more...]