By: Irene L. Solomon
WHAT IS IDENTITY CRISIS?
Identity is who you are and what your commitments, values and beliefs are. During the stage of adolescence, young adults go through a psychological stage known as ‘identity crisis’ (as given by Erik Erikson in 1968). This is a period of uncertainty, where we question who we really are, our role in the society, and ultimately our life’s purpose. During this time, individuals experiment with different identities, learn to navigate their social roles and establish a sense of self. If adolescents fail to resolve this ‘Identity crisis’, it can result in feelings of insecurity and confusion, that may persist into adulthood. Additionally, ‘identity crisis’ is not unique to adolescents, it may even happen in adults.
IDENTITY CRISIS MYTHS BUSTED-
“Only teenagers can have an identity crisis”- First off, identity crises aren’t exclusive to teens, it can happen in the case of adults as well at different stages of life, regardless of their age.
“Identity crisis is a mental illness”- An identity crisis is not a mental illness, rather it is a psychological state triggered by major life transitions, diagnosis of a serious ailment, retirement, etc.
“Identity crises can be easily resolved”- There are no quick fixes for an identity crisis. Resolving an identity crisis is a time-taking process that requires support from our dear ones and self-discovery.
“Once an identity crisis is resolved, a person’s identity is fixed”- It is noteworthy that a person’s identity is a flow concept, that means, it evolves as per changing circumstances of life. Thus, it
WHAT CAUSES AN IDENTITY CRISIS-
1. MAJOR LIFE EVENTS- This could range from a change of career or a job loss, retirement, moving to a new destination, etc. to taking up new social roles like parenting, marriage, or even physical changes due to illnesses.
2. LOSS- The demise of a loved one, separation from one’s partner, divorce etc. can cause the person to feel lost and purposeless.
3. TRAUMA- Traumatic life experiences such as being a victim of an accident, abuse, etc. can result in despair, burnouts or questioning one’s purpose in life.
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HOW TO RECOGNISE IF YOU”RE HAVING AN INDENTITY CRISIS-
1. Feeling lost or aimless.
2. Often asking yourself what’s the “point” of fulfilling your duties or roles that you have been performing.
3. Feeling like you don’t fit in anywhere or struggle to find a sense of belonging.
4. Experiencing hollowness or dissatisfaction with life.
5. Increased anxiety, low self-esteem, as well as growing self-doubt.
6. Depressive moods (feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness)
TIPS TO COMBAT AN IDENTITY CRISIS-
1. FINE ARTS- Creative outlets like music, art or even writing or journaling serve as a means for personalized expression. They allow people to communicate their inner thoughts and feelings. Also, it helps individuals to know what they themselves are actually experiencing on an emotional level.
2. SELF-CARE- Neglecting self-care is the first step towards low self-esteem. So, prioritize self-care activities like meditation, yoga, listening to soulful music, skincare, etc.
3. GOODBYE, SOCIAL MEDIA! - Call it quits with social media for some time in order to reduce external influences and comparison that hinder self-confidence. This is an incredible way for self-exploration without any outside obstacles that in turn allow us to resolve our identity crisis.
4. AFFIRMATIONS- Incorporate the recitation of affirmations to yourself in your daily routine. In addition to this, create a list of personal goals and aspirations that are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)
* Turning to antidepressants or any sort of anxiety-related medication for coping with an identity crisis is not helpful at all. They cause more harm than good. Moreover, there is a high risk of getting addicted to such stuff.
CONCLUSION-
Going through an identity-crisis and finding ways to cope with it effectively takes a lot of strength and is a definite sign of bravery. If you’re feeling uncertain or confused about who you really are, just know that it is perfectly fine to seek help. Experiencing an identity crisis is not indicative of emotional or mental weakness, but highlights your courage to go out into the world and establish your sense of self. Plus, it is not necessary that once an identity crisis is resolved, it won’t ever happen again.
REFERENCES-
1. TalktoAngel - Best Online Counselling & therapy | Best Online Psychologist Consultation India. (2024, December 17). TalktoAngel. https://www.talktoangel.com/
2. Psychologs Magazine. (2024, October 7). Mental Health Magazine | Psychology Magazine | Self Help Magazine | Psychologs Magazine | Mental Health Magazine | Psychology Magazine | Self-Help Magazine. https://www.psychologs.com/
3. The most comprehensive coaching platform | BetterUp. (n.d.-b). https://www.betterup.com/
4. Health News - Medical News today. (n.d.). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
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