the Differences Between Dissociative Identity Disorder and Schizophrenia

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)

My friend was recently diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID).
She has a history of trauma and struggles to cope with setbacks and negative emotions, and she also suffers from depression.
I would like to ask about the difference between dissociative identity disorder and schizophrenia.
Currently, I have only seen one personality, but the doctor mentioned that there are several, just not yet revealed.
She sees the doctor every two weeks.
This personality is suicidal, feels weary of the world, and is very apathetic.
She engages in self-harm, and her condition has worsened over the past few days, with this personality emerging more frequently and her wounds becoming more numerous and deeper.
This morning, she woke up in fear.

I would like to know, aside from seeing a doctor and providing companionship, how I, as her closest friend, should handle situations when this personality emerges.
Additionally, I have seen shared experiences suggesting that helping her understand herself better can be beneficial for her condition.
Is this a potential cure? I hope for her recovery; how long might it take? Thank you for your help.

Xuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/24

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello, schizophrenia is currently renamed as schizophrenia spectrum disorder.
It is fundamentally caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions, and requires pharmacological treatment.
Split personality typically refers to dissociative identity disorder, which is classified as a dissociative disorder.
When under significant stress, an individual may transform into another personality, and the original person has no memory of the actions taken by this alternate identity, resulting in amnesia for certain periods.
Continuous psychotherapy is usually necessary.
Negative emotions, depression, and self-harm are critical issues that require active treatment, and seeking medical care is essential.
Support and warmth from friends and family can be beneficial for such patients.

Reply Date: 2016/03/24

More Info

Understanding the differences between Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and Schizophrenia is crucial for providing appropriate support and treatment for your friend. Both conditions can be complex and often misunderstood, but they are fundamentally different in their nature, symptoms, and treatment approaches.

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder, is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or an experience of possession. These identities may have their own names, ages, histories, and characteristics. DID often arises as a coping mechanism in response to severe trauma, particularly during childhood. Individuals with DID may experience gaps in memory regarding everyday events, personal information, and traumatic events. The primary symptoms include dissociation, identity fragmentation, and significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
On the other hand, Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there), delusions (false beliefs), disorganized thinking, and impaired functioning. Schizophrenia is primarily a psychotic disorder, meaning it involves a disconnection from reality. The onset of schizophrenia typically occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood, and it is often associated with a range of cognitive and emotional impairments.

In your friend's case, the diagnosis of DID suggests that her symptoms are rooted in trauma and emotional distress, leading to the development of distinct identities as a way to cope with overwhelming feelings. The presence of a self-destructive personality indicates a significant level of distress and a need for immediate intervention. It is essential to approach her situation with empathy and understanding.

What You Can Do as a Supportive Friend:
1. Listen and Validate: When your friend expresses her feelings or experiences, listen without judgment. Validate her emotions and let her know that it’s okay to feel what she’s feeling.

2. Encourage Professional Help: While you can provide support, it’s crucial that she continues to see her mental health professional. Encourage her to be open with her therapist about her experiences, especially regarding self-harm and the increasing presence of her self-destructive identity.

3. Safety First: If she is exhibiting self-harming behaviors or expressing suicidal thoughts, it’s vital to ensure her safety. Encourage her to reach out to her therapist or a crisis hotline immediately. If she is in immediate danger, do not hesitate to seek emergency help.

4. Educate Yourself: Understanding DID and its treatment can help you provide better support. Familiarize yourself with coping strategies that may help her manage her symptoms.

5. Encourage Self-Exploration: Helping her understand her different identities can be beneficial. This might involve journaling, art therapy, or other forms of self-expression that allow her to explore her feelings and experiences.

6. Be Patient: Recovery from DID is often a long process that requires patience and understanding. Healing can take time, and it’s essential to be supportive throughout her journey.

7. Set Boundaries: While it’s important to be there for her, it’s also crucial to take care of your own mental health. Set boundaries to ensure that you are not overwhelmed by her struggles.

Treatment and Recovery:
The treatment for DID typically involves psychotherapy, particularly trauma-focused therapies that help individuals process their traumatic experiences and integrate their identities. Medications may be prescribed to address symptoms of depression or anxiety but are not the primary treatment for DID. The duration of treatment varies widely among individuals, depending on the severity of the disorder and the presence of co-occurring conditions.

In conclusion, while both DID and schizophrenia involve complex psychological experiences, they are distinct disorders with different underlying causes and treatment approaches. As a supportive friend, your role is invaluable, but it’s essential to encourage professional help and ensure that your friend feels safe and understood. With the right support and treatment, individuals with DID can work towards healing and integration of their identities.

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