Definition
This idiom is used to acknowledge one's tendency towards paranoia while also asserting that, in a specific instance, there is a genuine threat of harm from others. It indicates the speaker is typically wary, but in this situation, there is real reason for concern.
I always feel like someone's watching me. I know it sounds paranoid, but, just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean they're not out to get me.
She started to doubt her colleagues' motives. She said, "I know I’m a bit paranoid, but just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean they're not out to get me."
He was uneasy about his new neighbors, commenting, "I hope I'm not overthinking it, but just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean they're not out to get me."