Comment by K2 on 28 Jul 2009 at 6:28 pm

Since none of this is private I have asked for the help of another alter. I feel ike others can see me like I am wearing a t-shirt announcing who I am. But I am never sure if they do. How did you calm the anxiety? Since this is all so new, it is also very confusing. Who is, who isn’t at any given moment.

Dear K2,

I know how frustrating it feels not to know what’s happening with yourself. I’ve been there, too. My alters never announced who they were when they came out during a switch, and no, it’s not necessary for the alters to announce himself or herself. Alters are created to protect you. Within a multiple’s inner world, each alter may envision what another alter looks like, including dress and appearance.  My alter’s did.  But in the real outside world no one can see anything.  You will appear the same at all times, but just feel different.  For me, I stayed away from looking in mirrors to lessen anxiety.  What people may see or experience as you switch is that you may appear moody, angry, or not quite yourself at times.

Unless you share that you are a multiple, most people will dismiss your switches simply as if you’re having a bad day and are being different or difficult at that moment.  If I couldn’t stay calm I would excuse myself and find somewhere where I could settle down.  When a multiple is stressed, chaos is surely to follow.  Trying to stay stress free may be difficult but it’s necessary to function well.  So what I try to do is remove myself from stressful situations.  I walk away.

I know all this is new to you, please be patient, have faith and your healing will follow.  Wishing you all my best on your journey.

Karen