Dissociative Disorders

The technical name for these disorders is "Dissociative Disorders" because some aspect of the individual has lost its connection with, or become "dis-associated" from other aspects of the person. The dissociated aspect can be limited to traumatic memories, or include the memories of most or all of one's past life. One or more personalities can be dissociated from others; the person then assumes two or more distinct personalities at different times, or one or more personalities can be "watching" as another behaves. A person affected with the depersonalization variety of Dissociative Disorder may feel completely separated from his or her own body or thinking. Dissociative Disorders have attracted attention far out of proportion to their numbers because of the unusual aspects of the symptoms. Audiences are especially drawn to portrayals of multiple personality, as, for example, in the movie "The three faces of Eve." However, despite their amusement value for audiences, there is nothing entertaining about experiencing one of these disorders. 

If you or someone you love has one of these disorders, you should consult a mental health professional (clinician, therapist). A mental health professional  will conduct a thorough evaluation  to first understand what is happening and then will discuss treatment options, including medications.

There are many ways family members or loved ones can help individuals  to deal with the disorder better. 

To read more about these disorders, see below.

Dissociative Amnesia
Dissociative Fugue
Dissociative Identity Disorder (Multiple Personality Disorder)
Depersonalization Disorder
Dissociative Disorder Not Otherwise Specified