Suwinai Sukanant / 500px / Getty
Helpful.
If someone uses those words to describe you, its usually meant as a compliment.
And youd likely take it that way.
Suwinai Sukanant / 500px / Getty
After all, its important to help others, and not just think of yourself.
You could be struggling with a savior complex.
A savior complex can also be known as a messiah complex or white knight syndrome, she adds.
The motivation behind the savior complex impacts you mentally and emotionally.
You get your sense of purpose from helping or saving others.
There are specific signs to be aware of.
Ultimately, being a little more selfish sometimes can help.
How Do You Know If You Have a Savior Complex?
Dealing with a savior complex, however, goes beyond just being good to others.
You are, instead, helping others at the expense of helping yourself.
What are some other actions and reactions you may show when you have a savior complex?
Dealing with trauma or grief can be a significant factor.
This can be impactful at any age, but particularly in childhood.
An example of being parentified is a child growing up with the responsibility of caring for an alcoholic parent.
Low self-esteemcan also lead to having a savior complex.
It can lead to a toxic, one-sided relationship, where your boundaries and feelings are not respected.
The intense focus on constantly pushing yourself to like others can wreak wreaks havoc on your mental health.
This harsh self-scrutiny leads them to become workhorses because the work they produce is never felt as good enough.
you might end up feel overwhelmed, resentful, angry, and misused.
If you feel like any of this describes you, youre not alone.
But if your self-worth is tied to always helping someone else, it can be challenging to overcome.
Taking responsibility for your actions, and your part in struggling with savior syndrome, is key.
Why do you feel its necessary to help others at the expense of yourself, all the time?
What is your motivation?
An introspective look at yourself may help you uncover the cause of your actions.
Then work on taking care of yourself.
That means strengthening your sense of self-worth and your self-esteem.
Decide that others approval and validation wont be your exclusive focus.
Create your own goals and build in time to work on achieving them.
Make it a priority.
And then stick to your schedule.
Finally, set clear, decisive boundaries.
Learn that no is a complete sentence.
Recognize that some people who benefitted from your savior complex wont like to hear it.
And be okay with that fact.
2022;17(3):341-355.