Dissociative Identity Disorder (multiple personality disorder)

Dissociative identity disorder (multiple personality disorder)

http://www.webmd.boots.com/mental-health/dissociative-identity-disorder

With dissociative identity disorder, also known as multiple personality disorder, a person may have different identities controlling their thoughts and behaviour at different times.
Dissociative identity disorder may stem from emotional problems or trauma or abuse earlier in life.

Dissociative identity disorder is characterised by the presence of two or more distinct or split identities or personality states that continually have power over the person's behaviour. With dissociative identity disorder, there's also an inability to recall key personal information that is too far-reaching to be explained as mere forgetfulness.

The "alters" or different identities have their own age, sex, or race. Each has his or her own postures, gestures, and distinct way of talking. Sometimes the alters are imaginary people; sometimes they are animals. As each personality reveals itself and control's the individuals' behaviour and thoughts, it's called "switching". Switching can take seconds to minutes to days. When under hypnosis, the person's different "alters" or identities may be very responsive to the therapist's requests.

Along with the dissociation and multiple or split personalities, people with dissociative disorders may experience any of the following symptoms:

1. Depression
2. Mood swings
3. Suicidal tendencies
4. Sleep disorders ( insomnia, night terrors, and sleep walking)
5. Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias (flashbacks, reactions to stimuli or "triggers")
6. Alcohol and drug abuse
7. Compulsions and rituals
8. Psychotic-like symptoms (including auditory and visual hallucinations)
9. Eating disorders.