March 5 is DID (Dissociative Identity Disorder) Awareness Day. Given the correlation between ACEs and Dissociative Disorders, I want to bring this day and some resources to your attention.
Even the most trauma-informed and competent practitioners often have difficulty diagnosing and treating the spectrum of dissociative disorders (DDs), especially DID. But we are learning that this elegant way of coping with chronic, severe childhood trauma is more prevalent than previously thought. Current studies suggest about 3% of the population lives with a dissociative disorder. I prefer to consider mine a survival superpower than a disorder.
It has been difficult for many folks to find good training and information on DID, but that is changing, in part because the focus on ACEs in communities around the country, and in research, has drawn more attention to it. I highlight two of my favorites here: The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISST-D.org) offers classes, information and support to professionals and a helpful 'find a therapist' tool for survivors. An Infinite Mind (aninfinitemind.com) also offers information and an annual conference for people who live with DID and other DDs, and those who treat and support them. Both offer continuing education credits in several fields for their training.
As a person with lived experience with dissociative identities, as well as years of work in the child welfare world, I also provide workshops and advocacy presentations on ACEs, post-trauma growth, and de-mystifying dissociation and DID.
At Dr. Feliti's request, I wrote an article for the winter 2020 edition of The Permanente Journal that focuses on boosting awareness among medical personnel about dissociative disorders, and what to do when you encounter someone like me. I re-post it here in honor of DID Awareness Day. Please feel free to share, "A Patient's View of the Challenges and Blessings of her Dissociative Disorder"
Read the article here: https://www.thepermanentejourn...020/winter/7305.html
Your comments and questions are welcome.
Comments (5)