When we talk about dissociative trauma disorders, we’re referring to conditions that stem from childhood trauma and fall furthest on the dissociative spectrum. These include Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and both subtypes of Other-Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD-1a and OSDD-1b).
Not all dissociative disorders are inherently complex trauma-based (e.g. depersonalization-derealization disorder), though, for many, trauma plays a role in its development.
While trauma-based themselves, DID and OSDD are still typically comorbid with Complex PTSD. There is some symptom overlap, but Complex PTSD really encompasses the posttraumatic response on a neuropsychological level, as well as the disorganized relationships with others and the world at large. DID and OSDD diagnoses describe the interrupted development of a survivor's core identity; the compartmentalization of self, of information, of traumatic memories and feelings. While most all with DID/OSDD will have Complex PTSD (traditionally only fading diagnostically after marked therapeutic work and healing), the same cannot be said in reverse. There are many C-PTSD survivors without an additional dissociative disorder, and the dissociative symptoms they do experience fall under the proposed criteria for C-PTSD (or as listed currently, PTSD - Dissociative Subtype). It's important to keep this in mind as you read -- particularly if you’re a survivor yourself.
• This page is under construction •
Survivors come first. No concessions. We believe our education on dissociative disorders should only be done in as accurate, clear, and compassionate a manner as possible.
When that standard can be met, and we can fully honor those it represents, the remainder of this page will go live. We’re a small team with many roles to fill at once, but doing subpar education on our official page isn’t who we are or who you deserve!
In the meantime, we’d love to direct you to some of our existing resources so you can still get a comprehensive introduction and richer understanding of Dissociative Identity Disorder.
◆ Dispelling DID Myths ◆
Identifying and challenging over three dozen myths and misconceptions about DID
◆ What is DID?: A 5-part Series ◆
This infographic series goes deep into DID in an easily-digestible way - perfect for social media education! Because it’s five parts, we’ll make it easy and link Parts 1-5 here: x, x, x, x, x
◆ You Did Not Shatter ◆
A message for any DID/OSDD survivor who was led to believe their mind collapsed or shattered under the weight of insurmountable trauma. It actually did no such thing.
