344: Comparing Yourself to Others with Dr. Kat

Published: June 13, 2024, 7 a.m.

I want to explore a topic that comes up a LOT in therapy sessions: comparing yourself to others. It\u2019s a trap that many of us are caught in, especially when it comes to engaging in social media. In general, we seem to think that everyone else has their shit together except us. I won\u2019t keep you in suspense, but I\u2019ll tell you upfront that nobody has it together all the time. Why do we spend so much time and energy playing the comparison game? Let\u2019s jump in.\xa0\n\nShow Highlights:\n\nParents are particularly vulnerable to making comparisons to others.\n\nThe top reasons that we compare ourselves to others: societal pressure, social media, curated imagery in TV/movies, and general insecurities\n\nThe downward spiral of negative self-judgment is a long road toward anxiety, depression, etc.\n\nDr. Kat\u2019s advice: \u201cWhen it comes to social media, take note of how it makes you feel.\u201d\n\nComparison is seeing a snapshot of someone else\u2019s life and comparing our worst to what looks like their best.\n\nComparison, perfectionism, and people-pleasing are all attempts to make ourselves \u201cgood enough\u201d for other people.\n\nDr. Kat\u2019s tips to combat comparisons:\n\nLimit social media.\n\nRealize that comparing yourself to a sliver of someone else\u2019s moment is not the full picture.\n\nCut yourself some slack and live YOUR own life.\n\nRealize that you are human\u2014and all humans make mistakes.\xa0\n\n\nResources:\nPlease find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to better support people for whom they provide services.\xa0\nYou can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms\nVisit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.\xa0\xa0\nVisit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!