The Psychological Impact of Working in Crypto
By Dr Bradley Powell, Clinical Psychologist
Working in Parliament taught me that ongoing innovation in the crypto and digital assets sector requires psychological support for those driving it.
From the outside, the world of crypto can seem like a thrilling frontier - decentralised, fast-moving, and rich with opportunity. But for many working in crypto, finance, and tech, the reality is more complex. It’s a space defined by volatility - not just in markets, but often in mood, identity, and wellbeing.
As a Clinical Psychologist at Regal Private Therapy Practice in London, I regularly work with individuals whose lives are shaped by the digital economy. Our clients include traders, developers, and startup founders - many of whom carry the hidden weight of a high-risk, high-reward industry.
Constant Monitoring and the Rise of Compulsive Behaviours
Crypto never sleeps. The 24/7 nature of decentralised markets encourages constant checking - of charts, Twitter threads, Telegram groups. What starts as a habit can quickly escalate into a compulsion. Clients have described the urge to wake at 3am to check a coins price, or the guilt that comes with stepping away from the screen. This kind of hypervigilance can lead to anxiety, disrupted sleep, and burnout.
Self-Worth Tied to Performance
Unlike traditional finance, the crypto space often blurs personal and professional identity. For many, their digital wallet feels like a reflection of their competence, intelligence, and even worth. When markets dip, it’s not just capital that’s lost - it’s confidence, self-trust, and sometimes relationships.
Isolation and Imposter Syndrome
Despite being digitally hyperconnected, those in crypto can feel deeply isolated. Remote teams, pseudonymous networks, and rapid innovation can create a sense of dislocation. There’s often an unspoken expectation to “just get it” - to understand new protocols, trends, and tokens without missing a beat.
A Personal Perspective
My interest in developing high-performance and psychological wellbeing of those in the crypto community began during my time working in Parliament, where I helped facilitate events for the Crypto and Digital Assets All-Party Parliamentary Group. The event brought together movers and shakers from across the crypto landscape - including figures from Flight Story and pioneers from leading protocols, to explore how Parliament can make the UK a global crypto hub.
It was clear to me then, and remains clear now, that innovation in this sector cannot exist without support for those driving it. The pressures are real, the stakes are personal, and the conversation about mental health is still only just beginning.
Seeking Support: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
At Regal Private Therapy Practice in London, we understand the unique challenges faced by individuals in the crypto and tech sectors. Whether you’re navigating burnout, performance anxiety, compulsive behaviours, or simply need a space to think clearly, we’re here to help.
We also accept payments in Bitcoin and Ethereum, recognising the importance of flexibility for those working in the decentralised space.
If you’re ready to talk, or just want to explore what support could look like, reach out.
Therapy is not just for when things break - it’s a tool for clarity, resilience, and moving forward with confidence.
