By Varsha Seshadri
What is an identity crisis?
Simply defined, an identity crisis is a period of confusion around one’s sense of identity and purpose, often taking place during an area of personal transition and growth. This can affect many various facets of life, like personal and even professional sides of life, which leads to one having to make difficult decisions revolving around their identity.
Symptoms and Causes of an Identity Crisis
It’s extremely imperative to recognize some of the symptoms so you can reach out before it’s too late. While identity crises do look different from person to person, common symptoms include:
● Depersonalization- feeling disconnected to oneself
● Elevated levels of anxiety
● Confusion/Lack of Direction
● Questioning core values
● Looking for more meaning, reason, or passion
If any of these happen, it is a good idea to reach out. Giving yourself the time and also asking others for options can be extremely useful and allow for a healthier relationship with yourself.
It’s important that identity crises are widespread, and teenagers are the most vulnerable. Identity crises can be caused by any of the following and many others:
● A major life change
● Cultural conflict
● Trauma
● Loss
Identity crises are a normal but challenging part of life. Hence, exploring one’s beliefs and values can help build resilience!
Identity Crises in Adolescents
Erik Erikson theorized that during adolescence, teens are meant to solve the identity versus role confusion crisis, where they create their identity and explore areas where they can thrive in. A 2010 study showcased that a formed sense of identity is positively associated with adolescents’ well-being as well as being negatively associated with psychosomatic and neurotic symptoms, depression, and suicidal tendencies.
Identity Crises and Mental Health
Any type of crisis can harm your mental health- and identity crises are no different. There is a possibility of experiencing depression, anxiety, insecurities, and many more issues while dealing with an identity crisis. In addition, research has shown that viewing yourself negatively can lead to vulnerability and depression. In addition, metal health disorders can actually lead to an identity crises- especially bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorder (BPD) and schizophrenia as they naturally can muddle one’s identity.
Coping with an Identity Crisis
Every identity crisis is different and depends on the individual circumstances. However, there are some common treatments professionals typically recommend:
● Support networks
● Meditation
● Relaxing
● Journaling
● Writing
● Self-Exploration
● Connect with Others
● Self-help Seminars
In extreme situations, therapy and counseling may be needed. This can provide the support needed to help individuals create their identity and lead to a greater understanding of oneself. Some possible therapy methods include:
● Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
● Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
● Psychoanalytic Therapy
● Art Therapy
● Talk Therapy
All of this is dependent on the individual’s needs, preferences, and circumstances. A mental health professional can guide one in deciding the best treatment.
References:
Ragelienė T. Links of Adolescents Identity Development and Relationship with Peers: A
Systematic Literature Review. J Can Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2016 Spring;25(2):97-105. Epub 2016
May 1. PMID: 27274745; PMCID: PMC4879949.
Recognizing and coping with an identity crisis. (n.d.). University of Pheonix.
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