Need to know:

Perfectionism is a common term, but what does it mean in relation to mental health?  In this setting, the term refers to self-worth based on striving to achieve high standards, despite potential negative effects (such as burnout, anxiety, depression and eating disorders).¹ 

Striving for high standards and excellence is not inherently negative. Perfectionism differs from solely aiming for excellence, and becomes problematic, in that it entails self-worth being linked to meeting the high standards.

When accompanied by self-criticism, and other unhelpful thinking styles, perfectionism can be associated with poor mental health. As an example, perfectionism with self-criticism and dichotomous thinking may result in the individual concluding, “I only got 75% in the test, it was not a high distinction, therefore I am a complete failure.”