D.I.D. is Dissociative identity Disorder or previously known as Multiple Personality Disorder M.P.D.


The Diagnostics and Statistics Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition (DSM - IV) defines it as :
*The presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states, each with its own relatively enduring pattern of perceiving, relating to, and thinking about the environment and self.
*At least two of these identities or personality states recurrently take control of the persons behaviour.
*Inability to recall important personal information that is too extensive to be explained by ordinary forgetfulness. The disturbance is not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (eg. Alcohol Intoxification) or a general medical condition (eg. complex partial seizures).


When a child is young and he/she is exposed to repeated extreme traumatic situations, it has the ability to create other "personalities", also known as "alters" (alternative personality) because his/her own personality isn't completely developed yet. He/she creates more alters so that she doesn't have to undergo all the violence.


There is controversy as to whether D.I.D exists and the treatment of, as well as whether one should work towards integration to be a singleton or whether a person should remain a multitive. This, to some people find is a postive decision, that is to stay a multtitive, and can function healthily as one. Whilst others believe that integration is what suits them.


From what I have learned, and even from my own experience, I know that it has taken us so long to finally be diagnosed, and then to accept that this is true and that it is "normal" and nothing to be ashamed of (which we are still learning to deal with), to then find a balance between each of us, so that we can not only function but also have each of our very individual needs met as well, has been the first hurdle we have had to climb over, and continue to do so at times, that for integration to take place, we know that it will take ten times more effort and time to accomplish this, plus a very digilent and committed therapist.


D.I.D. is complicated for the person who has it and for people who don't. I can only say from my own experiences, to believe what you are told. Many survivors hear over and over again "they won't believe you". It is so important that we learn that they lied and that we aren't the bad evil one and that we reacted in a manner that was to protect ourselves and keep ourselves sane.


There are usually many "littles", that is young personalities, that find it hard to trust people and are afraid of people. It is these very young personalities that need to be shown a safe love and learn to trust and share their secrets. They need to be shown all the things that as young ones they did not learn or receive, and be reminded constantly that none of the things are their fault. Also allowing the "littles" to come out at safe times and enjoy events and activities, is a really healthy way in which we can nuture and care for these little ones.