As TikTok continues its drastic rise in popularity, a heated debate has taken shape amongst users of the platform about the legitimacy of dissociative identity disorder (DID). DID is a mental illness that can cause shifts in identity, perceptions, and memories, and many TikTok users are questioning the authenticity of DID on the app.
The generated debate largely centers on the difference between those who are using the app to raise awareness about DID and those who are emotionally exploiting the condition. There are some accounts on TikTok that feature DID-related content and offer resources for managing the condition. This type of content is often designed to increase public knowledge on the illness and help others understand its implications.
There are also a number of accounts that use DID as a source of comedic relief, with some users even claiming to act as different “alters” throughout their content. This has been seen as problematic by many due to the lack of accuracy and respect it shows to those suffering from DID. Additionally, many people worry that content like this can give an incomplete and unrealistic account of the illness and add to any existing stigmas that already exist.
In response to the controversy, many have used the app to speak out about their own experiences with mental health and host real conversations about DID. This is beneficial as it encourages more tolerant and open-minded discourse surrounding the illness. Further, it allows users to share positive stories of recovery and provide resources for others seeking help.
Ultimately, the fight over what’s real (and what’s not) on TikTok when it comes to DID is a complex issue that will continue to be debated as new content is posted. It is up to users of the platform to be mindful of the content they view and post and to continue to use TikTok as a platform for progress and understanding.