Unpacking Dissociative Identity Disorder: A Deep Dive with Heidi Mortenson
Even people in ministry will often think that these people are demonized, and so then there'll be a deliverance that will go wrong, because they think that this person has demons, when in fact they have traumatized parts of themselves.
Ever felt like time just vanished, or met someone who seemed like a different person the next time you saw them? You might be touching on the complexities of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). In this episode of 'Strong Tower Mental Health', licensed therapist Heidi Mortenson tackles one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions out there. DID often gets misdiagnosed, even by professionals, and is sometimes mistaken for demonic possession in religious circles, leading to more harm than good.
Heidi breaks down what dissociation is, how it differs from DID, and why it's crucial to distinguish between the two. She also sheds light on how the brain uses dissociation as a coping mechanism during extreme trauma, especially in childhood. As these children grow into adults, they need new ways to cope if they're no longer in danger. Throughout the episode, Heidi emphasizes the importance of proper assessment and understanding before any form of intervention.
She also offers a heartfelt prayer for healing and safety. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to grasp the intricacies of DID and how to support those affected by it.