If you feel like you can't recognize yourself in a mirror and consistently perceive the reflection as someone else, it could be a sign of depersonalization or dissociation rather than necessarily a lack of self-awareness.
Depersonalization is a dissociative experience where individuals feel disconnected from their own thoughts, feelings, and identity, leading to a sense of unreality or detachment from oneself. It can cause the person to perceive their own body or self as unfamiliar or foreign, which might explain the sensation of not recognizing oneself in the mirror.
On the other hand, self-awareness is more about having a clear understanding of oneself, including emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. It doesn't necessarily relate to recognizing your physical appearance in a mirror.
It's important to remember that any feelings of detachment or disconnection from oneself should be taken seriously and discussed with a mental health professional. They can help you understand the underlying causes and provide appropriate guidance or treatment if needed.
If you are experiencing these feelings and they are causing distress or impacting your daily life, consider reaching out to a therapist, counselor, or psychologist who specializes in dissociation or related issues. They can conduct an assessment, offer a proper diagnosis, and work with you to develop coping strategies to manage these feelings.