Individuals considered authentic are those who strive to align their actions with their core values and beliefs with the hope of discovering, and then acting in sync with, their true selves. When people act in ways that violate their self-concept , they may experience negative feelings, ranging from mild discomfort to heavy guilt .
What Is Authenticity? (Plain Language Explanation)
Authenticity refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Authenticity
- Symptoms: The specific ways authenticity shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen authenticity
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When authenticity occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Authenticity
- Authenticity is far more common than most people realize
- Authenticity is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with authenticity see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about authenticity is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing authenticity, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.