There are many mental disorders that can co-occur with drug addiction. Finding out which triggered which–the mental disorder or the addictive behavior–can be similar to trying to figure out the egg and chicken conundrum.
Nevertheless, the fact is that there is a link between mental disorders and drug addiction–and both should be treated in order to improve the quality of life of the individual.
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One mental disorder that is found in some people who also have substance use disorders (addiction) is multiple personality disorder.
What is Multiple Personality Disorder?
Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), also known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), is a severe type of psychiatric disorder there one individual has a number of distinct personalities. This results in a lack of connection in the person’s memories, thoughts, actions, feelings, and sense of identity–important factors that make up one’s unique and individual personality.
Generally, MPD develops as the mind’s way to cope with traumatic experiences. The personalities that arise are so distinct that they may be aware of each other. This can cause so much discord in the individual that many people with Multiple Personality Disorders turn to substances like drugs or alcohol to cope and self-medicate.
How Addiction and Multiple Personality Disorder are Linked
A theme of dissociation is common between the multiple personality disorder and addiction. After all, people with substance abuse disorder (SUD) use substances in order to dissociate from their problems, from pain, stress, boredom, heartbreak, and loneliness.
Also, both MPD and SUD are products of people’s coping mechanism, making it likely that both conditions can co-occur at the same time in the same individual.
Treatment for MPD and SUD
While the two conditions can occur in one individual, both can also be treated at the same time. What happens is that the individual is taken out from its environment and away from sources of drugs or alcohol and addiction triggers. They go into a detox and attend in-patient rehab or other addiction treatment programs.
Hi my name is Milean and I am currently taking up architecture in the Philippines. We are working on a project that involves research on persons with DID. My partner and I would like to ask a few questions if possible. Hoping for your response. Thank you for your time!
Hi Milean, please note that as a private treatment facility, we protect the identity of our residents and are very strict and serious when it comes to privacy and confidentiality. Kindly contact us at 09175098826 to discuss what exactly your research is about and how we can help.