Dissociative Identity Disorder: A case report seen in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is diagnosed if an individual has at least two different identities that alternately control a person's actions with no memory of the incidents. We hereby describe a case of a 21-year-old student with a history of clinical depression, false claims of being raped, getting pregnant and often neglected by her parents. Cultural issues regarding DID were also discussed. DID should be closely monitored for suicidal behaviour. Dissociative identity disorders are rarely reported in Africa. She was admitted into the psychiatric ward where her diagnosis was confirmed through a structured interview for dissociative disorders and differential diagnoses were ruled out by psychological, and laboratory investigations. Socio-c Possible abuse in her childhood might have contributed to her condition. Individuals with DID should be closely monitored for suicidal behaviour.