The Impact of Perfectionism on Mental Health, An Overview
Perfectionism, is characterised by striving for flawlessness and setting excessively high performance standards and can have significant implications for mental health. While some degree of perfectionism can motivate individuals to achieve their goals, excessive perfectionism can lead to a range of mental health issues.
Anxiety and Perfectionism
One of the most common mental health issues associated with perfectionism is anxiety. Perfectionists often experience constant worry about making mistakes or not meeting their own high standards. This can lead to chronic stress and anxiety disorders.
Depression Linked to Perfectionism
Perfectionism is a significant risk factor for depression. The relentless pursuit of perfection and fear of failure can often result in feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness. Perfectionists are prone to rumination, where they continuously think about their perceived failures, further exacerbating depressive symptoms.
Perfectionism and Self-Esteem Issues
Perfectionists tend to link their self-worth to their achievements. When they fail to meet their impossibly high standards, their self-esteem suffers. This can create a vicious cycle of striving for perfection, failing, and feeling worthless, which reinforces a negative narrative (or internal monologue).
Procrastination and Perfectionism
Interestingly, perfectionism can also lead to procrastination. The fear of not being able to complete a task perfectly can cause individuals to delay starting it. This avoidance behaviour can lead to increased stress and feelings of guilt or shame.
Perfectionism and Burnout
The constant pressure to be perfect can lead to burnout, especially in professional and academic settings. Perfectionists often overwork themselves, neglecting self-care and rest, which can result in physical and emotional exhaustion.
Perfectionism and it's effects on Relationships
Perfectionism can also affect personal relationships, not just work relationships. Perfectionists may have unrealistic expectations of others, leading to conflicts and strained relationships. Their critical nature can make it difficult for them to maintain healthy, supportive connections with friends and family.
Some simple strategies for perfectionism include:
1. Learning to set achievable and realistic goals can help reduce the pressure to be perfect.
2. Cultivating self-compassion allows perfectionists to treat themselves with kindness and understanding, especially in the face of failure.
3. Practicing mindfulness can help perfectionists become more aware of their thought patterns and reduce anxiety.
While perfectionism can drive success, it is crucial to recognise its potential negative impact on mental health. Addressing perfectionistic tendencies through therapy, mindfulness, and self-compassion can lead to a healthier, more balanced life.
Final Thoughts
By understanding and managing perfectionism, individuals can improve their mental health and overall well-being. If you feel your perfectionist tendencies are beginning to negatively impact your personal mental health and wellbeing, or is causing strain on work, personal or family relationships please consider speaking to us about individual counselling or psychotherapy, relationship therapy, one of our expert executive/life coaches, or neuroscience specialists.
Remember, asking for help is not a weakness, it's a strength!