In this conversation, I am honoured to sit down and chat with Adrian Fletcher. Adrian is a licensed psychologist, author, and survivor with lived experience of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder. She also uses the name Adrienne & Co.System to reflect a DID system of 22 + parts. She discusses discusses the complexities of living with the condition, the challenges of diagnosis, and the importance of understanding and support from both therapists and the general public. She emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care and the significance of advocacy in breaking down stigma surrounding DID.

*Correction: in the audio its 1-3% of the population is suspected to live with it, not one in three.

takeaways

• DID is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, leading to a lack of appropriate treatment.
• The average age of diagnosis for DID is around 37 years old.
• Many people living with DID are unaware of their condition until later in life.
• DID is a response to extreme and ongoing trauma, not a result of a single incident.
• The media often misrepresents DID, contributing to stigma and misunderstanding.
• Therapists need to be flexible and trauma-informed to effectively support clients with DID.
• It's crucial for individuals with DID to communicate and check in with their parts regularly.
• Advocacy and education are essential in changing public perception of DID.
• Living with DID can lead to a complex relationship with identity and self-perception.
• Support from family and friends is vital for those living with DID.

https://www.instagram.com/adrienneandco?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.aninfinitemind.org/