The effectiveness of treatments for dissociative disorders has not been studied. Treatment options are based on case studies, not research. Treatment may take many years.
Options may include:
A safe environment – doctors will try to get the person to feel safe and relaxed, which is enough to trigger memory recall in some people with dissociative disorders
Psychiatric drugs – such as barbiturates
Hypnosis – may help to recover repressed memories, although this form of treatment for dissociative disorders is considered controversial
Psychotherapy – also known as talk therapy or counselling, which is usually needed for the long term. Examples include cognitive therapy and psychoanalysis
Stress management – since stress can trigger symptoms
Treatment for other disorders – typically, a person with a dissociative disorder may have other mental health problems such as depression or anxiety. Treatment may include antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to try to improve the symptoms of the dissociative disorder.
