Identity and Mental Health: Navigating the Connection

Who am I?

Pause.

Ask yourself again: “Who am I?”

Oftentimes I ask my clients to answer this question about themselves and I’ve been met with a variety of answers ranging from “I’m [insert name]” (followed by a concerned look as to why their therapist forgot them) to a several-minute long silence. It’s an easy question with no easy answer.

Our identity—the way we see ourselves and how we are perceived by others—is deeply intertwined with our mental health and well-being. It is a complicated concept influenced by so many factors, it makes my head spin to think about them. Think for a moment of all the things you identify with. Maybe it’s your name, your gender, your hobbies, your career, or your role in the family. Now think about all the spoken and unspoken rules and expectations given to you around those parts of yourself. How “well” are you wearing that label? What stories do you tell yourself about that label? What stories have others told about those labels?

Identity shapes our self-esteem, self-image, and overall sense of self-worth. Yet, for many individuals, navigating the complexities of identity comes with challenges, even more so when that identity feels tainted with stigma, discrimination, and societal expectations that undermine their sense of identity and self-worth.

Every day, I work with individuals on some level of their identity. Whether that comes in the form of who they are as a parent, a partner, a friend, or a cog in the corporate capitalistic rat race, it impacts their day-to-day lives. In an often more profound way, identity-based stigma and discrimination become topics of exploration and discussion. These stigmas can have profound effects on mental health, leading to feelings of shame, isolation, and low self-worth. Whether it's racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, or the ever-present judgement (real and perceived) of others, the experience of being marginalized or devalued because of one's identity can take a significant toll on an individual's mental well-being, perpetuating a cycle of shame, secrecy, and self-doubt. We are inherently social creatures, and the weight of stigma is a direct threat to our sense of belonging within the tribe or society. Judgement by others based on the core of who we are is perceived as a threat to our safety (and history has taught us that this perception can become reality). Living under this threat (real or perceived) has systemic impact on us.

Moreover, internalized oppression—the process by which individuals internalize negative stereotypes and beliefs about their identity—can further exacerbate these feelings, leading to a deep-seated sense of shame and self-loathing that undermines their ability to live authentically and pursue their goals and aspirations. From imposter syndrome to internalized homophobia, these internalized beliefs can manifest in a variety of ways, affecting every aspect of an individual's life and well-being. When we internalize oppression, judgement, and shame, we begin to question the very core of our being. We question our worth, our goodness, and sometimes our right to exist on the planet.

Navigating the connection between identity and mental health requires compassion, empathy, and support. My work with clients and identity centers around challenging stigma and discrimination, unlearning and deconstructing societal, historical, and familial messages, promoting self-acceptance and self-compassion, and, on occasion, seeking community and additional support when helpful. Whether it's support groups or advocacy organizations, there are resources available to help individuals navigate the complexities of identity and mental health, fostering healing, resilience, and self-empowerment along the way.

How do we stem this tide of stigma, shame, and oppression? By fostering a culture of openness and acceptance, we can create environments where individuals feel empowered to embrace their identities and seek support for their mental health challenges without fear of judgment or stigma. By acknowledging the connection between identity and mental health, we can work together to promote healing, resilience, and well-being for all, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society that values and celebrates the uniqueness of every individual.

What are some pieces of your identity that you have worked with, struggled with, found compassion around, or found community with?

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. If you require assistance or are experiencing mental health concerns, please seek guidance from a qualified coach or mental health professional.