Imposter syndrome — the persistent fear of being 'found out' as less capable than others believe — frequently co-occurs with and amplifies postpartum depression.
The Postpartum Depression-Imposter Syndrome Cycle
- Postpartum Depression undermines confidence, making imposter thoughts more frequent and believable
- Imposter syndrome creates chronic self-doubt that worsens postpartum depression
- Overwork and perfectionism (imposter coping strategies) deplete resources needed to manage postpartum depression
Who Gets Imposter Syndrome with Postpartum Depression?
Imposter syndrome is most common in high achievers and in people from underrepresented groups in their field. It's particularly prevalent in academic and professional contexts where postpartum depression is also common.
Breaking the Postpartum Depression-Imposter Cycle
- Keep an evidence file: Document compliments, successes, positive feedback
- Separate feelings from facts: Feeling like an imposter doesn't make you one
- Normalize it: Imposter syndrome is nearly universal among high achievers
- Therapy: CBT effectively addresses both imposter syndrome and postpartum depression