reservdelssjäl

Reservdelssjäl is a term that originated in Sweden and describes a specific psychological or emotional state. It literally translates to "spare parts soul" or "replacement soul." The concept refers to a feeling of being incomplete or a sense of lacking a true self, often stemming from past trauma, significant loss, or prolonged periods of emotional detachment.

Individuals experiencing reservdelssjäl may feel as though their emotions or personality are not entirely their own, or that they are merely a collection of borrowed or adapted parts. This can manifest as a struggle to connect authentically with others, a difficulty in understanding one's own feelings, or a pervasive sense of emptiness. It's not a recognized clinical diagnosis but rather a descriptive term used to articulate a complex emotional experience.

The feeling can arise when someone has had to adapt significantly to survive difficult circumstances, suppressing their true self in the process. Over time, the original self may feel lost or buried, leading to a reliance on more superficial or adopted aspects of personality. Recovery from this state often involves introspection, self-compassion, and sometimes therapeutic support to reconnect with and integrate fragmented aspects of the self. The term highlights the profound impact of life experiences on one's sense of identity and wholeness.