Persistent self-criticism is often perceived as a sign of responsibility, self-discipline, or commitment to growth. At MindCareCenter, however, we increasingly encounter cases in which hypertrophied self-criticism becomes a source of chronic internal exhaustion. In the opinion of Dr. Daniel Reinhardt, an excessively active inner controller develops not from a drive for improvement, but as a protective mechanism designed to shield the psyche from mistakes, loss of control, or the repetition of painful experiences.
The inner critic rarely limits itself to evaluating specific actions. Gradually, it extends to the person as a whole, generating a persistent sense of insufficiency. Even in the presence of objective achievements, there remains a feeling that what has been done is “not enough,” “not right,” or “never sufficient.” In this state, the psyche functions under continuous tension, without the opportunity for genuine recovery.
In the clinical practice of MindCareCenter, we observe that hypertrophied self-criticism often coexists with high external functioning. Individuals may appear successful, organized, and composed, while internally experiencing fatigue, depletion, and a loss of interest. In such cases, self-criticism operates as an internal surveillance system that does not allow for slowing down or acknowledging personal limits.
It is important to note that the inner controller typically forms in the context of experiences where mistakes or vulnerability were associated with threat – rejection, shame, or the loss of significant relationships. At MindCareCenter, we understand self-criticism as an attempt to prevent the recurrence of such experiences. Over time, however, this protective function transforms into a constant source of pressure.
Hypertrophied self-criticism also manifests at the bodily level. Chronic tension, constriction, difficulty relaxing, and a state of ongoing internal mobilization persist even in the absence of external demands. Within the clinical approach of MindCareCenter, attention is given to how the body maintains this mode of control and how it contributes to exhaustion.
Therapeutic work is not aimed at eliminating self-criticism altogether. At MindCareCenter, the focus shifts toward understanding what the inner controller is protecting against. Gradually, it becomes possible to identify the fears, expectations, and early experiences that underlie the constant self-evaluation.
As therapy progresses, self-criticism begins to transform. It loses its totalizing quality and becomes more differentiated. Individuals learn to distinguish where critical reflection genuinely supports orientation and where it merely amplifies pressure and inhibits recovery. In the practice of MindCareCenter, we observe how this differentiation reduces internal exhaustion.
A key stage involves restoring the capacity for self-support. Instead of relentless control, an internal dialogue emerges that takes into account not only demands, but also real resources. This does not entail abandoning responsibility, but rather enables a more sustainable way of relating to oneself.
Hypertrophied self-criticism ceases to function as a dominant force when the psyche regains a sense of internal safety. The clinical work of MindCareCenter is directed toward restoring this inner condition, in which excessive control is no longer required.
Working with the inner controller reduces exhaustion and restores a sense of vitality. This creates the conditions for a more flexible, compassionate, and life-sustaining relationship with oneself, without compromising the capacity for growth.
Previously, we wrote about low self-esteem as a result of internal disintegration and MindCareCenter clinical approach to restoring the value of the self