Self-Sacrificing Treatment in Sydney
While looking after others is often admirable, it can quickly become detrimental when it leads to self-neglect and a cycle of self-sacrificing or subjugation. Cadence Psychology provides self-sacrificing treatment with trained clinical psychologists in Sydney so that you can start getting your own needs met with our effective interventions.
In this article we’ll delve into understanding self-sacrificing behaviour, its impact, and treatment options with Cadence Psychology in North Sydney.
What is Self-Sacrificing?
Self-sacrificing extends beyond mere helpfulness. It’s characterised by a persistent pattern where your own well-being consistently falls second to the perceived needs of others. This can manifest in various ways:
- Prioritising others’ needs at the expense of your own health and happiness e.g. neglecting things that matter to you, not advocating for the things you want to do.
- Feeling obligated to fulfill unrealistic expectations: Constantly striving to please others, even when it requires sacrificing your own values or boundaries.
- Experiencing persistent resentment or anger, despite your efforts: The build-up of unmet needs creates frustration and bitterness, directed inwards or outwards.
- Difficulty setting healthy boundaries: Feeling unable to say no or prioritise your own needs out of fear of disappointing or losing the approval of others.
- Enabling unhealthy behaviors in others: Allowing destructive patterns to continue by rescuing or taking responsibility for someone else’s problems.
It’s crucial to understand that self-sacrifice isn’t generally driven by malicious intent. Often, it stems from a deep-seated desire to connect, belong, and be valued. Childhood experiences, cultural norms, or personality traits can contribute to ingrained patterns of prioritising others above oneself.
Unraveling the Web of Self-Sacrifice
Before diving deeper, let’s differentiate between healthy compassion and self-denial. Helping others is essential for fulfilling relationships and a healthy society. However, self-sacrifice crosses the line when it:
- Comes at the expense of your own physical or mental well-being.
- Creates feelings of resentment, anger, or exhaustion.
- Neglects your personal needs and goals.
- Enables unhealthy behaviors in others.
What Causes Self-Sacrificing Behaviour?
So, what drives this tendency? Several factors can contribute to self-sacrificing patterns:
| Cause | Example |
|---|---|
| Cultural Norms: Societal expectations of putting others first, especially within certain families or communities. | “The ‘good daughter’ syndrome” |
| Childhood Experiences: Growing up in an environment where your needs were neglected or you felt responsible for others’ happiness. | “Emotional parentification” |
| Personality Traits: Individuals with heightened empathy, low self-esteem, or codependency struggles. | “People-pleasing tendencies” |
The Hidden Toll of Self-Neglect
Ignoring your own needs for the sake of others can have severe consequences:
- Emotional: Anxiety, depression, guilt, resentment, burnout.
- Physical: Weakened immune system, chronic pain, sleep disturbances.
- Relational: Difficulty setting boundaries, attracting unhealthy relationships, codependency.
Myths and Misconceptions
If you tend to self-sacrifice odds are you have some strong beliefs about the “goodness” of the behaviour. Here are some of the main myths and misconceptions about self-sacrificing:
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| Being selfless is always good. | Healthy self-care is essential for long-term well-being and ability to care for others. |
| Putting myself first hurts others. | Setting healthy boundaries leads to healthier, more fulfilling relationships. |
| True happiness comes from putting others first. | Neglecting your own needs leads to resentment and burnout. |
| My problems aren’t important compared to theirs. | Minimizing your needs prevents you from accessing resources and resolving issues. |
| My family/friends/colleagues will judge me for being selfish. | Setting healthy boundaries isn’t selfish. |
How Cadence Psychology Can Help You Learn To Get Your Needs Met
At Cadence Psychology, we understand the challenge of dropping the habit of self-sacrificing and are committed to creating a safe, supportive space for individuals struggling to get what they want. We offer:
- Experienced therapists: Specialised in treating self-sacrificing behaviors and their underlying causes.
- Tailored therapy approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and schema therapy.
- Culturally-sensitive care: Respecting diverse backgrounds and values.
Making Therapy Easier For You
We know reaching out can be daunting. To make life easier Cadence Psychology offers:
- Free intake consultations: Discuss your concerns and any questions you have about our psychologists.
- Flexible scheduling: Appointments available evenings.
- Online therapy: Convenient option for those facing accessibility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it selfish to prioritise my own well-being?
Absolutely not. Taking care of yourself allows you to better care for others. Remember, prioritising your well-being is not selfish, it’s essential!
Will therapy judge me for neglecting my needs?
Our therapists offer a non-judgmental, supportive environment. We understand that there’s a real human story that brought you to the habit of self-sacrificing and our aim is to help you make sense of it so you can start getting your needs met.
How long does it take to beat self-sacrificing?
Everyone is a little different here, based on how long they’ve been practicing self-sacrificing behaviour and the reasons it was adopted in the first place. However, evidence-based treatments such as schema therapy can often show shifts in around 8-10 sessions.
Make An Appointment
Contact Cadence Psychology today and start your journey toward a healthier, happier you.
By taking the first step, you embark on a path towards a life where you can truly care for yourself without neglecting those you love. Send us a message or call us on 0478 876 678 to arrange a free intake call.