Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a mental health condition in which an individual has several different “alters.” An alter is essentially an alternative identity that an individual may switch between. Alters may have completely different names, genders, personalities, and even physical characteristics that they perceive internally.
Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is a complex condition that arises as a result of severe, prolonged trauma. This trauma may be inflicted by a parent, guardian, family member, friend, or even a stranger. The intense emotional and physical pain experienced by individuals with DID typically begins in childhood, leading to the development of multiple distinct identities or “alters.” These alters represent the brain’s coping mechanism, helping the individual process and survive traumatic events that might otherwise be unbearable.
Breaking Down Alters
Each alter has its own distinct characteristics, functioning independently from the others. When combined, these alters make up the complete personality of the individual. While DID usually develops in early childhood, there are rare cases where it can emerge in adulthood. Alters may refer to themselves as parts of the person they inhabit or as entirely separate individuals. They may have different names, ages, genders, voices, and perspectives on the world. Each alter can also have unique opinions and ways of interpreting life experiences, which can create a complex and multifaceted internal world for the individual.
It’s important to understand that different alters can hold different memories. For example, one alter may recall traumatic events vividly, while another may have no recollection at all. This dissociation can extend to physical needs and characteristics, where one alter may experience specific allergies or medical conditions that others do not. Physical manifestations like changes in vision, heart rate, and muscle tension can vary from one alter to another, further complicating the individual’s experience.
In some cases, individuals with DID may feel disconnected from their own bodies, as though they do not truly belong to them. This sense of detachment can become dangerous, particularly if self-harming or suicidal thoughts arise. Someone in this state may believe their actions won’t affect them, leading to potentially life-threatening behaviors aimed at “eliminating” other alters. If you notice signs of self-harm or suicidal thoughts in someone with DID, it’s crucial to seek help immediately by calling 988, the national suicide hotline.
Types of Alters in DID
People with DID can have a wide range of alters, each serving a distinct purpose. To diagnose DID, clinicians typically need to identify at least two alters, though many individuals have several. These alters may belong to the same or different categories, and no specific type must be present for a diagnosis to occur.
One of the most common types of alters is the “host,” which is the alter that interacts most frequently with the outside world. Other alters may include:
- Child alter
- Internal Self Helper (ISH)
- Introject
- Opposite-sex alter
- Persecutor
- Protector
- Sexual
- Suicidal/internal homicide
- Teen alter
These are some of the more common types of alters experienced with DID. However, they are not all possible types. Some less common alters are:
- Animal
- Baby/infant
- Caretaker
- Demon or “evil” alter
- Fragment
- Military or political
- Nonhuman
- Robot or machine
- Shell
- Spirit, ghost, or supernatural being
It’s important to recognize that this list of alter types is not exhaustive; every person’s experience with DID is unique, and alters develop according to the individual’s specific needs at the time of trauma.
Treatment for Dissociative Identity Disorder
DID is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing treatment to manage effectively. A combination of medication and therapy is often used to help individuals stabilize and maintain balance as they shift between alters. Common therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as individual, group, and family therapy.
Because DID is highly individualized, treatment plans must be flexible. What works well for one alter may not work for another, and the needs of the individual may shift as they move between alters. It’s crucial to work with healthcare professionals who have experience treating DID, as they will understand the complexity of the condition and provide the necessary support.
At Alter Behavioral Health, we offer a comprehensive range of services to support individuals with DID and other mental health conditions. Our programs can be adapted to different levels of care, including crisis stabilization & intervention, residential mental health treatment, partial hospitalization programs, and intensive outpatient treatment. Each program is tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual, ensuring the best possible outcomes. If you or someone you know is struggling with DID or has experienced severe trauma, reach out to the Alter Behavioral Health team. We’re here to help guide you towards a happy, healthy life.
About Alter
Alter is a behavioral healthcare provider that specializes in evidence-based clinical treatment approaches. We provide a wide range of programs for adults and families experiencing mental health conditions including schizophrenia, depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, substance abuse, and more. This is done through client-centered care for a full-continuum of treatment. We serve the entire U.S. population from our revolutionary locations throughout sunny Southern California. Whether an individual needs 24/7 care or wants an outpatient program – we are there to guide every step of the journey. For more information, give us a call at (877) 613-9776 or visit our website at alterbehavioralhealth.com.
