Living with MPD

I think since I’ve been getting emails lately with random questions about MPD I will take time to answer questions regarding my diagnosis. I just want to make clear that those out there with MPD are all different. Our systems are different, the way we handle things is very different and in many cases the medications and treatment options are all very different.

This, then, would be a very personal thing I’ve chosen to do. I want others to know there is help and that I’m not afraid to discuss my past (to an extent, I can admit that, too) and the details of how I got this way, how I handle it now and what has helped me.

I also have to stress that I’m only giving advice based on my experience. I am, as you all know, not a professional that can deal with specific diagnosis. Just a little “disclaimer”. These are completely based on my OPINION.

I’m going to start with a question I got in email a few weeks ago. It was basically someone seeking advice on how to handle an alter:

Hi

Can anyone please tell me how an alter can be stopped from coming out. This alter took over the body for approximately 30 years and finally the host has regained control but the alter keeps trying to regain the body. Is there anyway to make an alter weak or prevent them from coming out. It is really taking its toll on the host. His Dr. is in the process of having him see a therapist but I am afraid it may be too late by then. Any help would be appreciated this alter can not take control of the body again.

With thanks

I replied to the email with the following information:

I had this problem with an alter coming out and wanting to die. It took extensive therapy and she is still there…but has regained some power. I think giving them power and finding out what it is they are trying to accomplish is key. Some therapy that I was involved in, besides medication to keep me calm and give me the ability to work things through, was asking questions by writing with my dominant hand and allowing an alter to respond with my non-dominant hand. Art therapy was especially good for me. It was hard work but I’m not medication free (and hope to remain so) and not participating in active therapy at this time. I now have some communication but I still have blackouts and switching issues. I take it a day at a time.

Using verbiage like “stopping them from coming out” or “making them weak” will only fuel the fire, I think. Especially if they are controlling. You are basically giving them a challenge and defeating the purpose you wish for, in my opinion.

Hope this helps,

Cat

These types of mails remind me of my stay in Timberlawn hospital years ago. I met so many there that had a different fight on their hands yet, were so much like me, still. I hope by writing people back and answering questions I can let others out there know they are NOT alone.

If you have any questions, email me and I’ll answer them here.  No names will be divulged if you request it to be so.  I don’t mind at all keeping that to myself.