Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is a psychological disorder in which a person, unknowing to them, has more than one personality, with each of them vastly different from the other. Moreover, these “personalities” are not aware of the existence of the other. Accordingly, this disorder is also often referred to as “multiple personality disorder”. The identities formed in this disorder have unique names, characteristics, and mannerisms. In fact, they also have distinct memories, which leads to recurring gaps in recalling everyday events and information when the other personality takes over. The disruption in identity involves a marked discontinuity in the patient’s sense of self and agency. DID is usually a coping mechanism in response to something traumatic experienced in childhood, and treatment involves psychotherapy as well as medication. If you, or someone you know, is suffering from DID, it is important that you learn thoroughly about the condition. To help you with the same, we have presented a list of the 5 best dissociative identity disorder books.
The List of 5 Best Dissociative Identity Disorder Books
Below we have presented a list of the 5 best dissociative identity disorder books. These books give you in-depth knowledge about the disorder, from symptoms to causes to appropriate treatment. Further, they also share personal stories who have overcome this disorder and come out stronger.
1. Got Parts? An Insider’s Guide to Managing Life Successfully with Dissociative Identity Disorder By A.T.W
This book is written by a dissociative identity disorder survivor in collaboration with her therapist and therapy group. It is full of effective coping techniques and strategies for improving the day-to-day functioning of adult DID survivors in relationships, work, parenting, self-confidence, and self-care. Accordingly, Got Parts will assist you in becoming acquainted with your internal family and improving communication, integration, and well-being. Although it avoids triggering, it provides well-grounded guidelines for living that DID people must follow on their way to recovery. Additionally, it includes coping strategies to assist you with triggers, flashbacks, and body memories.
2. Multiple Personality Disorder From the Inside Out Edited By Barry M. Cohen, Esther Geller, and Lynn W
In this book, people with Dissociative Disorders and their significant others address the complex issues of diagnosis, therapy, and maintaining personal relationships. 146 people diagnosed with DID and the people in their lives have contributed to compiling an accessible and practical volume for therapists, clients, and lay readers interested in how to better support people with dissociative diagnoses. As it explores the post-diagnosis journey, many people will find that the book validates their own experiences and feelings. Further, the book includes an introductory chapter describing MPD and dissociation, a glossary of terms, a list of resources, and an index. Reading this book will help you understand that you are not alone in your experience of the disorder.
3. Amongst Ourselves: A Self-Help Guide to Living with Dissociative Identity Disorder By Tracy Alderman and Karen Marshall
Amongst Ourselves is a self-help book written specifically for people with DID/MPD. It provides readers with practical steps they can take to cope with the condition and emerge with greater self-awareness and the skills to live a rich and rewarding life.
Authors Tracy Alderman and Karen Marshall define DID and provide a detailed explanation of its underlying causes and symptoms. Further, they describe what it’s like to live with DID and offer practical advice on coping with the condition, dealing with the confusion, and self-destructive behaviors that often accompany it.
4. Treatment of Dissociative Identity Disorder: Techniques and Strategies for Stabilization By Colin A. Ross
Dr. Ross describes techniques and strategies for stabilizing people with dissociative identity disorder in this book. The book is practical and helpful. It is written specifically for someone who is new to dissociative identity disorder (DID) and needs brief, to-the-point guidance. The book also includes many therapist-client dialogues to demonstrate the techniques and strategies that Dr. Ross has learned over the years. Further, this book is a fantastically useful resource for therapists dealing with clients who have DID.
5. All of Me: How I Learned to Live with the Many Personalities Sharing My Body By Kim Noble
Kim Noble was diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder in 1995. This book traces Noble’s tumultuous and fragmented life, providing insight into the intersections of memory, mental illness, and creativity. It tells of her terrifying battles to understand her own mind and reveals her courage and commitment to making sense of her life. Thus, the book provides an intriguing look at the confusion, frustration, and day-to-day challenges of a person living with DID. All of Me is shocking, inspiring, funny at times, and deeply moving.
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Conclusion
This article lists the best dissociative identity disorder books. This psychological disorder can seriously impair a person’s life, so it is important to start the treatment process at the earliest. Thus, we have presented you with books that will help you through the process. Not only will you become thoroughly knowledgeable about this disorder, but you will also understand that you are not alone in this journey. With these books, you will be able to help yourself, or someone you know, in the best way possible.