When a Diagnosis Becomes Your Identity
Psychology Today
by Thomas W Jefferys Ph.D.February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A mental health diagnosis can provide clarity and relief by explaining symptoms and patterns, but when it becomes an identity, it can limit growth and understanding. The article highlights how individuals often transition from viewing their struggles as temporary patterns to seeing themselves defined by these labels, which can hinder personal development and responsibility.
The piece uses examples such as anxiety and anger issues to illustrate how labels like "I'm anxious" or "I have anger problems" can evolve into identities ("I am an anxious person") that justify behavior rather than invite change. This shift from explanation to identity often results in reduced curiosity about underlying causes, leading to a sense of permanence and limitation.
The article underscores the risk of self-fulfilling prophecies where internalized labels influence behavior, reinforcing the expectation they create. While diagnoses serve an important purpose by providing structure and access to treatment, they should not replace personal inquiry or flexibility. The key takeaway is that maintaining a balance between understanding patterns and avoiding identity fixation is crucial for growth and recovery.
This matters for readers interested in health because it challenges them to consider how labels impact their mindset and potential. By staying curious and open to change, individuals can avoid letting diagnoses define their limits, fostering a more dynamic approach to mental wellness.
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/22/2026