Women Tend to be More Afflicted by Dissociative Disorder than Men

Studies have shown that far more women than men are regularly diagnosed with dissociative disorder. This condition involves a natural but complicated mental process called dissociation, which is a mental tool that enables a person to survive a very painful situation. Blocking out the memory of a particular experience creates a temporary mental escape from the trauma of the event.

Dissociative Identity Disorder, or Dissociative Personality Disorder, happens when disassociation occurs repeatedly. This can result in the creation of at least two different mental states, each with its own distinct personality. For this reason, Dissociative Identity Disorder was originally known as multiple personality disorder. The alternate identities are sometimes referred to as ‘personality states’ or simply ‘alters.’

Symptoms we at Harmony Place have observed include mood swings, depression, sleep disorders, panic attacks, amnesia, trances, eating disorders and substance abuse. In the last instance, addiction complicates the problem of dissociative identity disorder because one or several of the personalities involved becomes dependent on substances, and will therefore need to be weaned off even as measures are also taken to address their mental illness. However, with our expert diagnosis and treatment, the best prognosis may be expected for this disorder.

At Harmony Place, we follow a 12-Step Program designed specifically for women so that our clients can find their own unique, personal and holistic path to inner as well as outer peace. We believe in going beyond physiological treatment, in exploring a woman’s unique individual psyche. By understanding women’s personal needs, we can help find not just the solution to their dissociative disorder, but to find complete wellness as well from the inside out.