Jane Hart(II)

Jane is a biology major, author, public speaker and mental health activist. She hopes to bring about social change by educating the public on the current science surrounding childhood trauma, telling her story and helping others. Born and raised in Boise, Idaho; Jane currently (2019) resides there with her two beautiful sons. Over three years ago, Jane was diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), previously known as Multiple Personality Disorder, which has impacted her life in ways she never could have imagined. One of the exclusive causes of DID is repeated childhood trauma to which Jane has unfortunately endured throughout her life. Dubbing herself a "human information sponge", Jane has spent countless hours researching the effects childhood trauma has on the brain as well as learning as much as she can about DID in the hopes of healing herself and helping others. Jane believes people shouldn't shrink away from you when you tell them your mental illness; something that began to happen to Jane as soon as she became open about her DID. After coming to terms with having the diagnosis herself, she refused to come to terms with the thick, toxic stigma attached to the disorder causing millions to be misdiagnosed or altogether without access to proper help. Instead, she began writing articles and seeking out speaking opportunities; raising awareness for this immensely misunderstood disorder. Through her advocacy, Renegade 83 Production Company and A&E caught wind of her efforts and decided to hold the torch in solidarity with her in de-stigmatizing Dissociative Identity Disorder. Upon agreeing to participate in the rare and raw series, Many Sides of Jane, Jane made a promise to herself to be 100% open, real and honest, letting the world see that those suffering from DID still have the same hopes and dreams as everyone else. Jane's goal in opening her life to the cameras is not only to erase the misconceptions about this highly stigmatized disorder but to also normalize mental illness and to spread truth about the silent epidemic of child abuse and its lasting effects on the human brain. Jane feels there is power in sharing her story and it is her mission to help others realize mental health is just as important as physical health. Those suffering from DID are special, smart and unique; they deserve compassion, kindness and understanding.