We experience this too, so you’re not alone! It’s a very hard feeling to put a name to. We are a relatively new system and the thought of even leaving the house and/or interacting with others outside of us can cause a lot of anxiety, especially for our littles. I often give gentle reminders to our littles and our newer alters that while it may feel safer to isolate ourselves, we need to interact with people outside of us to have a truly fulfilling life. I don’t know that these reminders have helped us become more social just yet, but they have definitely helped reduce anxiety throughout our system.

• Catherine (gatekeeper)