Guilt: Why Do I Feel Bad When I Haven’t Done Anything Wrong?

Why do we feel guilty for saying no, disappointing someone, or taking care of ourselves—even when we haven’t done anything wrong?
About this Event

Why do we sometimes feel guilty even when we haven't actually done anything wrong? Why can saying no, disappointing someone, or simply taking care of ourselves leave us feeling selfish or responsible?

In this Mental Health Matters talk, therapist Danny Eller, LCSW explores the psychology of guilt and the beliefs that can make us feel responsible for other people's feelings, expectations, and reactions. Participants will learn the difference between healthy guilt and unnecessary guilt, why anxiety and excessive responsibility can make guilt so powerful, and how guilt can influence our choices and relationships.

This practical and accessible conversation will help attendees recognize when guilt is providing useful information and when it is keeping them stuck, understand why feeling guilty doesn't necessarily mean we've done something wrong, and begin developing healthier ways to respond to guilt without abandoning their own needs, values, or boundaries.