I think it's so interesting, the experiences you've shared. Of course, I can't even begin to actually know what's going on for you and your characters.
A number of thoughts come to my mind...that your characters are a way of self-comforting...escaping into your own world. I also have to toss out there that writers/creators often have "people" in their minds; characters who have identities and somewhat take on a life of their own.
Then, too, there's dissociation. Could the characters be various parts of yourself?
Anybody's guess, until you speak with a qualified mental health professional, of course.
__________________
|