What is imposter syndrome?
Impostor syndrome is when people, often high-achieving individuals, fail to accept their accomplishments despite their success and have persistent self-doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud or impostor.
A review of a total of 62 studies made up of over 14,000 participants found that imposter syndrome varied widely from 9% to 82% of people who reported the experience at some point in their life.
Impostor syndrome is common among both men and women and across a range of age groups. Impostor syndrome often coexists with depression and anxiety.
What thoughts are associated with imposter syndrome?
Imposter syndrome may include thoughts of self-doubt or fear that you may be exposed as fraud at work or in life; even though there’s strong evidence of your experience and accomplishments.
How is imposter syndrome treated?
Currently, there is no treatment for imposter syndrome.
Mental health professionals with patients who report experiences of impostor syndrome will likely use evidence-based treatments associated with depression and anxiety.
Where to get help
If your life or someone else’s is in danger, call 000 immediately.
If you’re in distress and need help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support.
For non-emergency support, your GP or regular health practitioner is often the best place to start. They will be able to assess your individual situation and recommend the best next steps for your recovery.
Remember that help is always available, no matter the situation.
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