Can you integrate alters?

It does happen! People are able to integrate their dissociated personalities that have been separate for a very long time behind an amnestic curtain. And true, it takes many years in psychotherapy with a skilled clinician for this process to complete itself thoroughly.

How long does it take for alters to integrate?

They also have to get used to being alone. That’s kind of sad for them for a while in between feeling better. danalyn: You say it takes 4-8 years for integration.

What happens when an alter integrates?

All the alter’s memories and emotions become the property of the system when they integrate and are no longer confined in just that one alter. The memories and emotions are not compartmentalized in that particular alter anymore. In other words, the amnesiac barriers between the alters come down.

What does it mean to integrate alters?

Integration occurs when I accept a dissociated personality, part, or aspect of myself and bring it into normal awareness. It is not about getting rid of or killing off a part of myself.

What does it mean when two alters integrate?

At the most basic level, integration simply means acceptance/ownership of all thoughts, feelings, fears, beliefs, experiences and memories (often labeled as personalities) as me/mine. It means giving up the split(s) that says something is “not me.” Integration is more than about personalities.

Can you control DID switches?

Some people with DID have more control over their switching than other people with DID. In a typical system, one alter generally takes over if the circumstances need it.

What integration feels like?

After years of automated disconnection and internal judgment, integration is often felt as an awakening, a softening toward what was once perceived as an enemy, a protective hesitance becoming a grateful encompassing. It is felt most profoundly in the surprising arrival of ownership and empathy for Self.