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Belief Quote by Sigmund Freud

“The expectation that every neurotic phenomenon can be cured may, I suspect, be derived from the layman's belief that the neuroses are something quite unnecessary which have no right whatever to exist. Whereas in fact they are severe, constitutionally fixed illnesses, which rarely restrict…” quote by Sigmund Freud
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“The expectation that every neurotic phenomenon can be cured may, I suspect, be derived from the layman's belief that the neuroses are something quite unnecessary which have no right whatever to exist. Whereas in fact they are severe, constitutionally fixed illnesses, which rarely restrict themselves to only a few attacks but persist as a rule over long periods throughout life.”

Sigmund Freud

About This Quote

Source Book: The Ego and the Id, 1923

Neuroses are not optional flaws but deep‑seated illnesses that persist, contrary to the belief they can be simply cured.

In simple terms: Neuroses are serious, lasting conditions.

Key Takeaway

Accept their reality and seek proper treatment.

Themes

mental health psychology illness perception

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

clinical educational

When to use this quote

  • clinical therapy
  • patient education
  • long‑term coping plans

Key Concepts

psychoanalysis chronic conditions societal myths

Questions to Reflect On

  • What societal beliefs shape our view of mental illness?
  • How can clinicians address misconceptions about neuroses?
A Different Perspective

Treating neuroses as trivial can hinder recovery.

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