People who struggle with imposter syndrome believe that they are undeserving of their achievements and the high esteem in which they are, in fact, generally held. They feel that they aren’t as competent or intelligent as others might think—and that soon enough, people will discover the truth about them. Those with imposter syndrome—which is not an official diagnosis—are often well accomplished; th
What Is Imposter Syndrome? (Plain Language Explanation)
Imposter Syndrome 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 Imposter Syndrome
- Symptoms: The specific ways imposter syndrome shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen imposter syndrome
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When imposter syndrome occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Imposter Syndrome
- Imposter Syndrome is far more common than most people realize
- Imposter Syndrome is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with imposter syndrome see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about imposter syndrome is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing imposter syndrome, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.