1 in 67 People Have DID? Find Out More!
(Summary) Is DID rare? The numbers say otherwise. Dissociative identity disorder affects about 1.5% of the population—the same rate as bipolar I disorder, and higher than bipolar II or schizophrenia. That means roughly 1 in 67 people live with DID. The problem isn’t rarity—it’s silence. DID is far more common than most people realize, and every story deserves to be seen.
Do you think DID is rare? Let’s look at the numbers. Bipolar one, affects about one and a half percent of people. Borderline personality disorder about one point four percent. Dissociative identity disorder, also one point five percent. That’s not fringe. That’s not one in a million. That’s one in sixty seven people. And DID is more common than bipolar two or skin schizophrenia. The difference People talk about those. They don’t talk about this. In my small town of twenty one hundred people, these stats suggest that around thirty one people here have DID. That’s not a mistake. That’s math. If you think you might have DID, or know someone who does, please hear this. You are not rare. And you’re not alone. You are part of a much bigger group than anyone ever told you. And your story deserves to be seen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where do these numbers about DID prevalence come from?
They’re based on large-scale, peer-reviewed studies that screen for dissociative disorders using structured clinical interviews. While the exact percentage varies from study to study, most modern research places DID around 1.5% of the general population—comparable to or slightly higher than bipolar I.
2. Why do so many people still think DID is rare?
For decades, dissociation was under-diagnosed and misunderstood. Movies and media often portray DID as an extreme oddity, and many professionals receive little training in recognizing it. The result is a public perception of rarity—even though the research doesn’t support it.
3. If DID is that common, why don’t I meet more people who have it?
Many people with DID don’t know they have it, haven’t disclosed it, or have been misdiagnosed with other conditions such as depression, PTSD, or personality disorders. So you may be meeting people with DID without realizing it. The invisibility of dissociation doesn’t equal rarity.
4. Are these statistics the same worldwide?
Prevalence studies come from different countries and populations and tend to show similar rates, though exact numbers vary. Cultural stigma and diagnostic practices can affect reporting. The key takeaway is that DID is consistently found at rates comparable to other major mental health conditions.
5. What should I do if I think I might have DID?
Learning the prevalence can feel validating, but diagnosis requires a qualified professional who understands dissociation. If you’re concerned, you can start by seeking a trauma-informed clinician or reading reputable information while you wait for an assessment. Knowing you’re not alone is a first step toward support and healing.