Self-esteem describes how individuals perceive their overall self-worth. Our feelings about ourselves can change on a daily basis based on our moods. However, our self-esteem is more fixed and does not fluctuate with these changeable feeling related to our own self worth. Individuals suffering from low self-esteem may feel the negative effects of this within their lives and symptoms can present themselves in a variety of ways.
People who suffer from poor self-esteem may be very self critical and be jealous, defensive, withdrawn, hostile, clingy as well as being perfectionists and hypersensitive. Other symptoms of low self esteem are that individuals may be indecisive and as well as extremely preoccupied with pleasing people. A trained therapist can assist you with developing strategies for increasing your self-esteem and self confidence.
Reasons for low self -esteem
Individuals who self-esteem may suffer these emotional issues due to trauma from having suffered physical or sexual abuse, bereavement or having a miscarriage, psychological related to disassociating (losing touch), or borderline personality disorder which causes self-harm, social problems usually from bullied, issues with relationships with work, school or friends or family, issues with their sexuality or coping with cultural expectations, such as an arranged marriage.
Low self-esteem and how it can affect you.
Individuals who suffer from low self-esteem or confidence, often hide away from social situations, cease to try new things and avoid taking challenges. By avoiding challenges or difficult situations you may feel safe in the short-term. However, in the long term this lack of new experiences can reinforces the individuals fears about their ability. Low self-esteem can have a negative effect on mental health and lead depression and anxiety.
Boost your self-esteem, challenging your negative beliefs, noting negative thoughts and write them down on a piece of paper and noting positive things about yourself, such as “I am thoughtful” or “I am a great cook” or “I am someone that others trust” can all help.
