Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem is a common problem that can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. Some research suggests that low self-esteem is more common among women than men, and that it is more common among people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or other negative life events. It is also more common among people who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
What is Low Self-Esteem?
Low self-esteem is a feeling of inadequacy or lack of worth. It can manifest as a lack of confidence in one's abilities, negative thoughts about oneself, and a tendency to belittle one's own accomplishments. People with low self-esteem may also compare themselves unfavorably to others and have difficulty accepting compliments or praise.
Low self-esteem can be caused by a variety of factors, including past experiences of failure or criticism, negative societal or cultural messages, or underlying mental health issues. It can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life and can lead to social isolation, difficulty in school or work, and a range of other negative outcomes.
Symptoms of Low Self-Esteem
Some common symptoms of low self-esteem include:
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Negative self-talk: People with low self-esteem may have negative or critical thoughts about themselves and their abilities.
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Difficulty making decisions: Low self-esteem can make it difficult for a person to trust their own judgment and make decisions.
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Avoiding new situations: People with low self-esteem may avoid trying new things or taking risks out of fear of failure or rejection.
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Difficulty accepting compliments: People with low self-esteem may have difficulty accepting compliments or may downplay their achievements.
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Difficulty setting boundaries: Low self-esteem may make it difficult for a person to stand up for themselves and set healthy boundaries.
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Difficulty expressing feelings: People with low self-esteem may have difficulty expressing their feelings and needs, and may feel uncomfortable speaking up in groups.
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Social isolation: Low self-esteem can lead to social isolation, as a person may feel too anxious or unworthy to be around others.
It is important to note that these are just a few of the potential symptoms of low self-esteem, and that everyone's experience is unique. Low self-esteem can manifest in a variety of ways, and the symptoms can be different for each person.
If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have low self-esteem, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. They can help you identify the causes of your low self-esteem and develop strategies for improving it.
How I Can Help YOU
Psychodynamic Counselling can be a helpful way to address low self-esteem and improve your overall well-being. I am a skilled and compassionate therapist who can provide you with a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts and feelings about yourself and your life.
Through counselling, you can work with me to identify any negative thought patterns or behaviors that may be contributing to your low self-esteem, and develop strategies to address them. I will also help you set and work towards goals, and learn coping skills to manage difficult emotions.
Let's Connect
With my guidance and support, you can work towards a healthier sense of self-worth and build a stronger foundation for your overall well-being. If you are interested in counselling with me, I encourage you to reach out and schedule a Free ‘Connection Chat’ to determine if I am the right therapist for you. I look forward to hearing from you!
6 Quick Tips on Coping With Low Self-Esteem
Tip 1: Recognise What You're Good At
Spend a little time each day focusing on positive, hopeful thoughts. Notice the little things that you are good at and allow yourself to feel proud of them.
We're all good at something, whether it's cooking, singing, doing puzzles, or being a friend. We also tend to enjoy doing the things we're good at, which can help boost our mood. Also, think about times in the past when you made it through something really difficult. Remind yourself that even though you might not feel your best right now, you have the ability and strength to get through it.
Tip 2: Accept Some Flaws
I know that this is easier said than done, but it’s a must if you want to overcome low self-esteem. There will always be things about yourself that you don’t like. Try to understand that this is true for every other person on earth, no matter how flawless they may seem.
Tip 3: Try Something New
In order to overcome low self-respect, you must understand that you can do more than you think. You can start by trying something new, like taking a photography or pottery class. If you’ve never meditated before, learn to meditate.
With each new adventure or skill you learn, you will add another notch to your confidence level. With time, you will learn that there is literally nothing you can’t do when you believe in yourself.
Tip 4: Build Positive Relationships
If you find certain people tend to bring you down, try to spend less time with them. Or tell them how you feel about their words or actions. Try to build relationships with people who are positive and who appreciate you.
Other people’s expectations can cause chaos to your self-esteem. You can’t control how other people will affect your confidence, but you can control how you treat others. A wonderful way to keep relationships positive, is to praise often, celebrate other people’s wins, and listen to people’s feelings before they become depressed or anxious.
Tip 5: Help People
The secret to having healthy self-esteem is to boost it through acts of kindness and good deeds. If you’re struggling to see your positive qualities, all you need to do is help them shine. You’ll get a lot of positive feedback simply by helping people, cheering them on when they win, and being supportive overall. If you make another person’s life better, you’ll reap so many rewards from that. And slowly but surely your self-esteem will improve.
Aim to do kind acts at least once a day, however, don’t be afraid to look for opportunities online where you can sprinkle kindness.
Tip 6: Start Saying "No"
People with low self-esteem often feel they have to say yes to other people, even when they do not really want to.
As we get older, we learn how to behave in challenging situations from others and from our own experience, so it is no surprise to see that everyone behaves in their own unique way. If you learn to behave passively, your self-esteem and confidence may suffer, and your ability to express yourself becomes limited.
Passive or unassertive behaviour is negative because it means you do not express your feelings and emotions. Others may take advantage of you if you do not speak up. And it will affect your communication and social interaction with others. However, it should not be confused with aggressive behaviour.
