Partial dissociative identity disorder (PDID) is a mental disorder characterized by multiple distinct personality states or dissociative identities. These identities may take over the individual’s consciousness and behaviour in specific circumstances, such as in response to extreme emotions or during the reenactment of traumatic memories. The dominant identity, or the identity that is present most of the time, is typically disrupted by the non-dominant identities in the form of intrusions such as thoughts, emotions, perceptions, and behaviours that are not characteristic of the dominant identity. These intrusions are often aversive and interfere with the functioning of the dominant identity. PDID is not caused by substances, medications, or other medical conditions; it causes significant impairment in various areas of life.

Symptoms

• Disruption of identity characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states, or dissociative identities, with discontinuities in the sense of self and agency
• One dominant personality state that functions in daily life, but is intruded upon by one or more non-dominant personalities
• Intrusions by non-dominant personalities in the form of thoughts, emotions, perceptions, or behaviours that are not characteristic of the dominant identity and are experienced as aversive and interfering with the functioning of the dominant identity
• Non-dominant personalities that do not take over the individual’s consciousness and behaviour on a recurrent basis, but may occasionally assume control in specific circumstances
• Symptoms that are not better explained by another mental disorder and are not caused by substances, medications, or other medical conditions
• Significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important areas of functioning

Additional Symptoms

• Amnesia, or gaps in memory, for personal information or events
• Depersonalization, or a feeling of detachment from one’s thoughts, feelings, and body
• Derealisation, or a feeling that the external environment is not real
• Mood and anxiety symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and panic attacks
• Suicidality and self-harm behaviours
• Disruptive behaviour in the form of impulsivity, aggression, or reckless behaviour
• Interpersonal difficulties, including relationship problems and social isolation
• Cognitive and perceptual disturbances, such as distortions in perception or thought processes
• Dissociative experiences, such as out-of-body experiences or feeling disconnected from one’s own body
• Physical symptoms, such as unexplained pain or physiological reactions to traumatic memories

Associated with

PDID may be associated with a history of complex trauma, such as abuse, neglect, or other experiences of trauma in early life. It may also be associated with other mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Treatments

Treatment for PDID) is psychotherapy. Specifically, the ICD-11 recommends the use of “prolonged exposure therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and cognitive processing therapy (CPT)” for the treatment of PDID. It is important to note that treatment for PDID can be a long and difficult process, and it may involve addressing past trauma and working to integrate the various dissociated parts of the individual’s identity.

Advice

• Educate yourself about PDID: It’s important to understand what PDID is and how it can affect a person. The World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases (ICD) provides a detailed description of PDID in Chapter V (Mental and Behavioral Disorders), under the heading “Dissociative disorders.” By understanding the disorder, you can better support and understand your loved one.
• Be patient and understanding: Living with PDID can be challenging and may involve frequent changes in personality and behaviour. It’s important to be patient and understanding with your loved one and to try to see things from their perspective.
• Encourage them to seek professional help: PDID is a complex disorder that can be difficult to manage without the help of a mental health professional. Encourage your loved one to seek treatment from a qualified therapist or counsellor.
• Support their treatment: It can be helpful to offer your support to your loved one as they undergo treatment for PDID. This might include helping them to attend therapy sessions, offering emotional support, and helping them to manage any practical difficulties they may face.
• Take care of yourself: Supporting someone with PDID can be emotionally draining, so it’s important to make sure you are taking care of yourself as well. Make sure you have a good support network of your own and don’t be afraid to seek help if you need it.

Overall, the most important thing is to be there for your loved one and to show them that you care and support them. With the right treatment and support, people with PDID can learn to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.