The Dos and Don’ts of Interacting with Someone who has Multiple Personality Disorder
Interacting with anyone can be challenging, but when you’re interacting with someone who has Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), it takes a special set of skills and guidelines to ensure that you’re creating a safe, healthy, and supportive environment. In this article, we’ll discuss the Dos and Don’ts of interacting with someone who has Multiple Personality Disorder.
Introduction
Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) or Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is a mental health condition that affects how a person perceives and interacts with the world around them. It’s a complex and often misunderstood condition that requires a certain level of patience, empathy, and understanding when interacting with someone who has it.
The Dos
Do Use Person-First Language
Using person-first language is important when interacting with someone who has Multiple Personality Disorder. Words like “person with MPD” instead of “MPD person” put the person before the condition. This helps to show that the person is more than their mental health condition.
Do Educate Yourself About the Disorder
The more you understand about Multiple Personality Disorder, the better equipped you will be to interact with someone who has it. Take the time to research the condition, talk to mental health professionals, and attend support groups. Educating yourself can allow you to understand what the person may be going through and how to support them.
Do Focus on the Individual’s Needs and Feelings
When interacting with someone who has Multiple Personality Disorder, it’s essential to focus on the individual’s needs and emotions. Asking them how they are feeling and what they need can help you understand how to support them better. Remember to be patient and non-judgmental.
Do Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is crucial when interacting with someone who has Multiple Personality Disorder. Be clear, concise, and specific when communicating. Avoid using sarcasm or humor that may be misinterpreted. Use active listening skills to show that you’re genuinely interested in what they have to say.
The Don’ts
Don’t Use Stigmatizing Language
It’s important to avoid using stigmatizing language when referring to someone who has Multiple Personality Disorder. Avoid using language that diminishes or ridicules the person’s condition, such as “crazy,” “insane,” or “schizophrenic”. These words can be hurtful and exacerbate their condition.
Don’t Assume You Understand What They’re Going Through
Although you may have educated yourself on the condition, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s experience with Multiple Personality Disorder is different. You can’t assume that you understand what they’re going through. Always listen to what they have to say and try to understand their individual experience.
Don’t Pressure Them into Revealing Their Alters
An “alter” is a different personality within someone with MPD. It’s essential never to force or pressure someone to reveal their alters. It’s up to the person with the condition to decide when and how they will share this information. Always respect their boundaries.
Don’t Take It Personally
Interacting with someone who has Multiple Personality Disorder can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the condition. However, it’s essential not to take any actions or reactions personally. Suppose someone switches alters or seems distant. In that case, it’s likely not a reflection of you, but their condition.
Conclusion
Interacting with someone who has Multiple Personality Disorder requires patience, empathy, and understanding. By using person-first language, educating yourself about the condition, focusing on the individual’s needs and feelings, and communicating effectively, you can create a supportive and healthy relationship. On the other hand, using stigmatizing language, assuming you understand what the person is going through, pressuring them into revealing their alters, and taking their behavior personally should be avoided.
