How do I know if I have impostor syndrome?

Sometimes, when people achieve a goal at school, at work or in their personal life, they think that the reason for their success is due to simple “luck” or thanks to the help of third parties, instead of recognizing their own effort or abilities. However, this belief is a specific condition, with cognitive-behavioral characteristics, popularly called impostor syndrome, and below we will tell you what it is about.

According to UNAM More than 70% of the world’s population has experienced impostor syndrome at some point in their livesThis condition is characterized by the fact that one of the greatest fears of those who suffer from it is that they will be discovered as “frauds”, experiencing a kind of remorse when achieving some goal.

According to Laura Barrientos, from the UNAM Faculty of Medicine, This psychological phenomenon is due to an irrational belief that does not allow the subject to have confidence in himself despite having social recognition and objects that endorse his achievements. as diplomas or trophies.

What is impostor syndrome?

One of the main characteristics of this syndrome is a lack of confidence, accompanied by insecurity, sadness and depression.

The inability to recognize one’s own achievements is often confused with humility or trying to maintain a low profile.

Feeling inadequate when faced with an achievement is also accompanied by experiencing nervousness or paralyzing anxiety with the belief that it could have been done better.

Who suffers from it?

This syndrome is more common among people with emotional problems such as depression, anxiety, attention deficitthe expert recommended treating the condition under the supervision of psychological therapy or, if it persists, seeking the help of a psychiatrist.

It is known that prominent figures have suffered from impostor syndrome such as Michelle Obama (politician), Emma Watson (actress) and Neil Armstrong (astronaut); these examples suggest a wide contrast in the branches in which they develop, opening a large margin in the characteristics of people who can suffer from it.