Unknown Friends Within: A Woman's Journey with Dissociative Identity Disorder

Denise Grant experienced emotional neglect as a child the early death of her father when she was ten years old and sexual abuse by her stepfather and others during her early teens. Dissociative Identity Disorder was the survival technique that helped Denise avoid a life of Alcoholism Drugs and maybe even Suicide. Until her late forties she had been labelled as Clinically Depressed however since her DID diagnosis she considers herself one of the luckiest persons alive. She is passionate about removing stigma surrounding Mental Health issues. She has been involved with a major organisation speaking out publicly about her personal experiences to educate and bring hope to many. She lives in Melbourne Australia. I have witnessed the way Denise intentionally shares her life story to break down stigma provide education and increase awareness. Denises story reminds me of the complexities and richness woven within our communities which are often hidden unseen and at times unwelcome. Denise never fails to bring these issues to light ad value our living experience. Her story will make you laugh tear up and more importantly think. - Brendon Clarke Senior Peer Trainer and Community EducatorUnknown Friends Within is a powerful account of how one woman Denise Grant is navigating and making sense of her life. It is a story of how she is coming to know her alters and appreciate the valuable part they have played in helping her manage her early years of neglect emotional and sexual abuse. This is not a finished story - it is still unfolding. Throughout her account we come to know Denise and her many alters as complex challenging humorous and loving. It is an extraordinary read for anyone wishing to gain as insight into the lived experience of someone with Dissociative Identity Disorder. - Laura Collister Director of Mental Health Services Wellways