Imposter Syndrome: A Real Problem, Even If It’s Not a Diagnosis

Imposter syndrome isn’t listed in manuals like the ICD-10 or DSM-5, and it’s not something the NHS formally treats. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t real - or that it isn’t worth taking seriously.

Like low self-esteem, perfectionism, and chronic self-doubt, imposter syndrome may not be a diagnosable disorder, but it can still take a real toll on your mental health, your relationships, and your career.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is the persistent belief that you’re not as capable, competent, or qualified as others think you are - despite ongoing evidence of your skills or achievements. It’s that gnawing worry that you’ve somehow fooled everyone, and it’s only a matter of time before you’re exposed.

You might notice it in how you think, feel, or behave:

• A fear of being “found out” as not good enough

• Dismissing your successes as luck, timing, or mistake

• Constant pressure to prove yourself or avoid mistakes

• Holding back from opportunities in case you fail or fall short

• Feeling like you’re one step away from being exposed as a fraud

These feelings are especially common in high-pressure environments—like work, study, or performance settings—where competence is constantly evaluated. But they can also show up in parenting, relationships, or creative pursuits.

If It’s So Common and Distressing, Why Isn’t It a Diagnosis?

There are a few reasons why imposter syndrome isn’t classified as a mental health disorder:

• It often overlaps with anxiety, depression, or low self-worth

• It tends to be situation-specific - surfacing at points of transition, visibility, or responsibility

• It’s more about how we relate to our thoughts and feelings than a broader mental illness

But just because it doesn’t have a clinical label doesn’t mean it’s not causing suffering - or shaping your choices in ways that keep you stuck.

The Impact is Real

Imposter syndrome doesn’t just stay in your head. It affects how you feel about yourself, how you show up, and how you navigate challenges. Left unchecked, it can lead to:

• Overworking to prove yourself or avoid being caught out

• Playing small or staying quiet to avoid the risk of failure

• Difficulty enjoying or acknowledging your achievements

• Constant overthinking, self-criticism, and low confidence

• Avoiding growth or change - even when it’s something you want

Many of the strategies we use to manage these feelings - like perfectionism, procrastination, or pushing through silently - can make things worse in the long run.

You Don’t Need a Diagnosis to Get Support

Therapy isn’t just for people with a diagnosis. One of the most useful questions you can ask is:
Is this getting in the way of how I want to live?

If your imposter feelings are affecting your wellbeing, your performance, or your confidence in day-to-day life, that’s reason enough to seek support.

Therapy can help you:

• Understand what’s driving your imposter feelings

• Spot the patterns that keep them going

• Change the way you relate to doubt, fear, and high expectations

• Build confidence and self-trust from the inside out

You don’t have to keep battling these thoughts alone—or waiting until things get worse.

The Takeaway

Imposter syndrome might not be a formal diagnosis - but that doesn’t make it any less real. If it’s holding you back or making life harder than it needs to be, it’s valid - and it’s worth working on.

Support is available, and change is possible.

👉 If you're ready to explore how therapy for imposter syndrome can help you move forward, get in touch here or explore the other posts on this site for more insights.