Choosing a Costume, Choosing a Self
Halloween is not just about candy; it is a night where you can step into someone else’s shoes. The costume you pick can say a lot about how you see yourself, who you want to be, and the world around you. Think about your costumes this year (and in the past) and ask yourself:
Heroes: Am I dressing up as someone I look up to or admire? What about them inspires me?
Villains: Does my costume bring out parts of myself (or the world) that I find scary or intense? What is it like to put that side on display?
Funny: Is my costume silly or goofy? What does it say about the playful side of me?
But Halloween is not the only time we put on “costumes.” Sometimes it can feel like we are dressing up to be different versions of ourselves every day, at school, at work, or even around friends. This is a common way of protecting ourselves, as criticism then falls on a disguised version of the self rather than our authentic core. If you have ever felt that way, here are some things to think about:
Notice Authenticity: When are the times you feel most like you?
Find Support: Spend time with people who accept you as you are, not who they want you to be.
Let Go of Masks: Costumes can protect us from showing our vulnerable side. Learning to face those feelings helps you grow into your real self.
You’re Not Alone: Everyone shows different sides of themselves in different situations. That is part of being human.
Reach Out: If it feels hard to be yourself around others, talking to a therapist can help you to reconnect to yourself.
True Authenticity
The goal is not to stop dressing up or playing pretend forever. What matters is knowing when it is safe to take the costume off at the end of the night, to breathe as your real self, and to trust that the people who truly matter will accept you as you are. Authenticity does not mean you never shift or change; it means you believe that who you are underneath is enough.
Take the Next Step
If struggling to feel like yourself is starting to affect school, work, relationships, or your overall well-being, it may be time to connect with a mental health professional. Reaching out for a free consultation with one of our therapists can be the first step toward living more authentically. You are worthy of love and acceptance exactly as you are, no costume needed. We welcome you to come as you are.
Written by: Morgan Bensky