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Recognizing Self-Gaslighting: 5 Clear Signs and How to Overcome Them

In the realm of mental health and personal growth, self-gaslighting is an often-overlooked phenomenon.

Jennifer McDougall
4 min readDec 19, 2024
Recognizing Self-Gaslighting: 5 Clear Signs and How to Overcome Them

While gaslighting from others is widely discussed, the idea that we can undermine our own reality, emotions, and experiences is equally significant. Self-gaslighting can erode confidence, damage mental health, and perpetuate cycles of self-doubt. The good news? Awareness is the first step toward change. Let’s explore the signs of self-gaslighting and actionable steps to overcome it.

What Is Self-Gaslighting?

Self-gaslighting occurs when you doubt your own feelings, memories, or perceptions to the point of invalidating yourself. This behavior often stems from past experiences of being dismissed by others, chronic self-criticism, or societal pressures to conform.

1. You Minimize Your Feelings

Do you often tell yourself things like, “I’m overreacting” or “It’s not a big deal” even when you feel deeply upset? Minimizing your emotions is a hallmark of self-gaslighting. By doing this, you deny yourself the right to feel and process emotions, leading to unresolved inner turmoil.

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Jennifer McDougall
Jennifer McDougall

Written by Jennifer McDougall

Host of Life Refined podcast 🎙️ Personal Growth | Self-Improvement | Wellness 💡 Helping you level up your mindset & life. https://linktr.ee/jenmcdougall

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