Conspiracy theories abound throughout history, especially in times of crisis, such as the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic. People who believe these theories often have a sense of existential threat: a perceived danger to one’s own life or well-being. People then consume, believe, and share these theories as a way of making sense of that threat.
When Conspiracy Theories Becomes Part of Your Identity
Living with conspiracy theories over time can lead to a fusion of identity and diagnosis. You may find yourself thinking "I am conspiracy theories" rather than "I have conspiracy theories." This identity fusion has significant consequences:
- Reduces motivation (why try if this is just who I am?)
- Increases shame and stigma internalization
- Makes recovery feel like losing part of yourself
- Limits how others see you (and how you see yourself)
Reclaiming a Multidimensional Identity
Your identity is vastly larger than conspiracy theories. A powerful exercise: complete this sentence 20 times with anything other than your struggles:
"I am someone who ___________"
Values, roles, relationships, interests, history, capabilities — all form your identity.
Conspiracy Theories as One Chapter, Not the Whole Story
Narrative therapy offers a powerful reframe: conspiracy theories is one story in a much larger life narrative. You are the author, not the character defined by struggle.
Externalizing the problem: Practice talking about "Conspiracy Theories that visits me" rather than "my Conspiracy Theories." This linguistic shift creates psychological distance and agency.
Building Identity Beyond Conspiracy Theories
- Invest in relationships that see your full self, not just your struggles
- Pursue interests unrelated to mental health — art, sport, learning, creativity
- Find meaning — purpose larger than symptom management provides identity anchor
- Contribute to others — giving to others builds positive identity components
- Celebrate growth — document how you've changed, overcome, adapted
The Strengths That Conspiracy Theories Builds
Many people find that navigating conspiracy theories develops genuine strengths: deep empathy, resilience, self-awareness, creativity, and a hard-won wisdom about what matters in life.