The proverbial "identity crisis" is something we know well in pop culture, but when it comes to ourselves, it can be harder to pin down. Identity itself is a complex concept because it is intrinsically subjective, but most psychologists agree that our identities encompass memories, experiences, relationships, and values, and involve how all of these things fit in our external circumstances. In combination, these components help create our sense of self and define how we move through the world.
So, what happens when that personal blueprint is suddenly blurry or torn into pieces? We begin to question ourselves and act out. And this can happen with trauma, career changes, divorce, retirement, and more. But all hope isn’t lost. Click through to learn all about the causes, signs, and ways to work through an identity crisis.