The Shadow Side of Privilege
Individuals who have inherited money often face unique dilemmas which are frequently overlooked and misunderstood by the culture at large and even by mental health professionals. The privilege of having has its shadow side. Many people who have inherited money struggle with issues such as:
- Shame about having inherited money
- Compulsive spending
- Tolerating envy
- Issues with boundaries
- Chronic anxiety about losing their money
- Guilt
- Fears and/or overwhelm with money management
- Delaying gratification
- Existential dilemmas and the search for meaning
- Issues and questions around appropriate giving
- Secrecy versus privacy
- Feelings of mistrust or even paranoia
- Deep seated feelings of inadequacy
- Difficulty earning a living and finding meaningful work