Is perfectionism a mental illness?
According to Psychology Today, perfectionism is a trait that makes life an endless report card on accomplishments or looks. When healthy, it can be self-motivating and drive you to overcome adversity and achieve success. When unhealthy, it can be a fast and enduring track to unhappiness.
What makes extreme perfectionism so toxic is that while those in its grip desire success, they are most focused on avoiding failure, resulting in a negative orientation. They don’t believe in unconditional love, expecting others’ affection and approval to be dependent on a flawless performance.
On this episode of Living Well with Dr. Jessica, we are joined by Ellie Fuentes who tells us how we can overcome perfectionism. Ellie is a private practice therapist at Clinical Insights in New Jersey. She holds a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fairleigh Dickinson University and is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counsel and a Licensed Associate Counselor in the state of New Jersey.
What are the symptoms of perfectionism?
Signs of Perfectionism
Having high standards and expectations.
Feeling pressured to live up to high expectations.
Needing clear organization and structure.
Exaggerated fear of failure.
Being ambitious and driven.
Higher levels of self-doubt and insecurity.
Difficulty overlooking small mistakes.
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