Me and my impostor syndrome
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My first background is in psychology, and although we’re less touchy-feely than other helping professions, there is an emphasis on discussing mental health issues.
Impostor syndrome isn’t a diagnosable thing, but it certainly impacts the way people view themselves…and I imagine those predisposed to mental health issues like depression and anxiety are more susceptible. I also deal with both of those things, to a degree.
Impostor syndrome has affected me deeply, but only when I wasn’t able or willing to talk about it.
Talking about it in closed forums with colleagues and graduate advisors was certainly very helpful for me because it allowed me to see that I wasn’t alone in my feelings. I haven’t allowed it to affect the way I perceive my accomplishments, but sometimes impostor syndrome leaves me with the feeling that I’m still not doing enough.
