Dissociation is a psychological process that creates a sense of disconnection between a person’s thoughts, feelings, memories, or identity. While many people are familiar with conditions like Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) or Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder, fewer know about Other Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD). This subtype of dissociation can be just as complex and impactful as other dissociative disorders, yet it often remains misunderstood.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what OSDD is, how it differs from other dissociative disorders, common symptoms, and strategies for managing and seeking support.
What is Other Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD)?
OSDD is a diagnosis used to describe dissociative symptoms that do not fully meet the criteria for other dissociative disorders like Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) or Dissociative Amnesia. It acts as a "catch-all" category for individuals whose experiences of dissociation are significant and disruptive but don’t fit neatly into a single diagnosis.
OSDD was introduced in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a replacement for the category previously known as Dissociative Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (DDNOS). This change highlights the need to specify how an individual’s dissociative symptoms manifest.
How is OSDD Different from Other Dissociative Disorders?
OSDD shares similarities with other dissociative disorders but has key differences that distinguish it:
DID vs. OSDD:
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In DID, individuals experience two or more distinct identity states, each with its own sense of self, memories, and behaviours. In OSDD, a person may experience identity alteration but without distinct or fully separate identity states.
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For example, someone with OSDD may feel like they are "different people" at different times, but these states are less defined or autonomous compared to DID.
Amnesia:
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Individuals with OSDD may experience memory gaps or difficulty recalling certain events. However, these memory issues might not meet the full criteria for Dissociative Amnesia.
Chronic and Subtle Dissociation:
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OSDD can involve chronic but less dramatic dissociative symptoms compared to other disorders, making it harder to diagnose.
Common Symptoms of OSDD
Symptoms of OSDD can vary widely depending on the individual, but some common experiences include:
Identity Confusion or Alteration:
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Feeling like your identity is unclear, fragmented, or fluid.
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Switching between different emotional or mental states without distinct identity separations.
Memory Gaps:
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Struggling to recall specific events, conversations, or time periods, particularly those related to stress or trauma.
Emotional Numbness or Detachment:
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A sense of being disconnected from emotions or unable to feel them fully.
Derealization and Depersonalization:
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Feeling detached from reality or as if the world around you is unreal.
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Feeling disconnected from your body or as if you’re observing yourself from outside.
Difficulties with Relationships:
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Struggling to maintain consistent behaviours or emotional responses in relationships, which can lead to misunderstandings or conflicts.
Trauma Symptoms:
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Many individuals with OSDD have experienced trauma, often in childhood. Symptoms like hypervigilance, flashbacks, or intense fear may co-occur.
Causes of OSDD
Like other dissociative disorders, OSDD is often rooted in trauma, particularly during early childhood. When a child experiences repeated or severe trauma (such as abuse or neglect) and lacks the support needed to process it, dissociation may develop as a coping mechanism. Over time, this adaptive response can become chronic and lead to the symptoms seen in OSDD.
Other contributing factors include:
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Chronic stress or exposure to traumatic environments.
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Disruptions in attachment during childhood.
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Biological factors that make some individuals more prone to dissociation.
Diagnosing OSDD
Diagnosing OSDD requires careful assessment by a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Because dissociative symptoms can overlap with other mental health conditions like PTSD, depression, or anxiety, an accurate diagnosis often involves:
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A detailed clinical interview.
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A review of personal history, particularly related to trauma.
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Tools like the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) or Dissociativeto measure dissociative tendencies.
Strategies for Managing OSDD
While living with OSDD can be challenging, many individuals find ways to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. Here are some strategies:
Therapeutic Support:
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Trauma-focused therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) or Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) can help process unresolved trauma.
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Therapies like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) or Internal Family Systems (IFS) may help individuals explore and manage identity confusion or emotional regulation.
Grounding Techniques:
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Grounding exercises can help reduce feelings of detachment and reconnect with the present moment. Examples include:
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Physical Grounding: Holding a textured object, pressing your feet into the ground, or focusing on physical sensations.
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5-4-3-2-1 Technique: Using your senses to identify items in your environment (e.g., 5 things you see, 4 things you can touch).
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Breathing Exercises: Practising slow, deliberate breaths to calm the mind and body.
Establish a Routine:
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Consistent daily routines can provide stability and reduce feelings of fragmentation or confusion.
Self-Awareness Practices:
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Keeping a journal to track thoughts, emotions, or memory gaps can help identify patterns and triggers.
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Mindfulness exercises can help increase self-awareness and emotional regulation.
Social Support:
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Building a network of trusted friends, family, or support groups can provide understanding and reduce isolation.
When to Seek Help
If OSDD symptoms are interfering with your daily life, relationships, or ability to work, seeking professional help is an important step. A mental health professional can guide you through understanding your experiences, addressing trauma, and developing effective coping strategies.
Conclusion
Other Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD) is a complex and often misunderstood condition, but it’s important to remember that it’s a natural response to trauma and stress. With the right support, therapy, and self-care strategies, individuals with OSDD can work toward healing and integration.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of dissociation, know that help is available. Sign up for our newsletter at groundme.app and follow Ground Me on Instagram for more insights, resources, and tips on managing dissociative symptoms and improving mental health.
