Developing a sense of self or an identity is an essential part of every individual becoming mature. Identity or parts of identity may be classified by any number of things such as religion, race, sexual preference, gender, and/or ethnicity. Some traits are set at birth such as race and sex. Some traits may be modified later in life such as language(s) spoken or religious preferences. Struggling with various parts of identity is natural and normal. Developing an identity or sense of self and those traits a person desires to have can take time and may be challenging. Not having a strong sense of self or struggling with identity issues may lead to depression, anxiety, and other psychological health problems in addition to even physical health problems.
How Therapy Can Help with Identity Issues
One may find him or herself struggling with identity issues which lead to depression, hopelessness, addiction, and more. Psychotherapy offers a place in which clients may discuss the issues related to their identity. Through psychotherapy, clients may reduce their depression, find ways to cope with struggles associated with their identity issues, and ultimately find themselves in the process.
Psychological Disorders Associated with Identity Issues
The DSM covers several different identity issues. Under the “dissociative disorders” category, dissociative identity disorder is listed. Dissociative identity disorder is characterized by alter-egos or multiple distinct personalities. Gender identity disorder is listed under the category of “sexual and gender identity disorders.” It has subcategories including gender identity disorder in adolescents or adults, in children and not otherwise specified. Gender identity disorder is characterized by discontent with biological gender. Under the “additional codes” category of the DSM, identity problem is listed.
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