"Help! I feel everyone is so fake!"

We all know how off-putting it is when someone pretends to be someone they're not. Here, how to deal with 'fakers' in the real world and online

Outsmart real world fakers

Discover why it bugs you 

“When someone pretends to be someone they’re not, we’re not sure if we can trust them,” says expert Cortney Warren, PhD, adding that research shows people who are consistently authentic tend to have higher self-esteem and better-quality relationships. It makes sense, therefore, that when we’re around “fakers,” we subconsciously feel like we can’t be ourselves either—and that’s unhealthy for our self-worth. Just knowing why fake folks bother you is the first step to addressing their behavior.

Be honest

If a loved one isn’t acting like themselves, consider talking to them, says Warren. “You could say, ‘I noticed you weren’t being the person I know you to be.’” And you might share how it affects your relationship: “I can’t trust you’re going to be the same version of yourself I know and love.” Acknowledging how important they are to you is often enough to give them “permission” to be themselves.

Protect your big heart