Why Do I Feel Like I Have More Than One Identity?

Do you experience a disruption of identity characterized by two or more distinct personality states, which may be described in some cultures as an experience of possession? The disruption in identity involves marked discontinuity in sense of self and sense of agency. These signs and symptoms may be observed by others or reported by the individual.

Do you experience recurrent gaps in the recall of everyday events, important personal information, and/or traumatic events that are inconsistent with ordinary forgetting?

Does the problem cause significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning?

While it is unlikely that you have a dissociative identity disorder, you may be displaying a sign related to it. Dissociative identity disorder is characterized by ‘switching’ to different identities. It may feel like you have two or more people living and talking in your head. Each identity may have a different name, gender, different characteristics, and so on. In case you are experiencing this, it may be important to see your doctor. He will rule out other factors that could be the underlying cause of the symptoms, such as a substance or medical condition (e.g., complex partial seizures). In case you answered ‘no’ to all questions, there is no need to worry.

While it is unlikely that you have an identity disorder, you may be displaying several signs related to it. It may be useful to plan a visit to your doctor. He may refer decide to refer you to a mental health professional for further testing if he thinks that is needed. If the mental health professional confirms that you need treatment, it usually includes psychotherapy and medication. Don’t be afraid to ask medical help. If it makes you feel more comfortable, just ask a family member or close friend to join you to the medical appointments.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have dissociative identity disorder: a disorder characterized by ‘switching’ to different identities. It may be important to seek medical attention. If your doctor confirms you meet all the diagnostic criteria for dissociative identity disorder, it’s important to receive treatment. People with this disorder can engage in self-harm, can develop sexual dysfunctions, drug use disorders, eating disorders and depression. It can also cause difficulties in personal relationships. Don’t be afraid to seek help and to ask questions to your doctor. The right treatment can help improve your quality of life and ability to function.