Low Self-Esteem

What Is Low Self-Esteem?

Low self-esteem refers to having a poor self-image and diminished sense of self-worth. Individuals who struggle with low self-esteem may doubt their value, abilities, and experience feelings of worthlessness, inadequacy, or inferiority. Several factors can contribute to the development of low-self esteem, such as experiencing trauma, abuse, bullying, lack of positive reinforcement or consistent criticism in childhood, social comparisons, and mental health conditions that may distort self-perception like depression and anxiety.

Signs of low self-esteem include:

  • Frequent self-criticism and having a harsh inner dialogue 

  • Negative self-image, focusing excessively on perceived flaws, shortcomings, failures, or deficiencies 

  • Lack of confidence in one’s abilities, leading to avoidance of participating in new opportunities, activities, or challenges

  • Trouble making decisions due to lack of trust in self

  • Sensitivity to criticism or negative feedback from others

  • Difficulty accepting and feeling undeserving of compliments or praise from others

  • Lack of assertiveness, difficulty with expressing needs and desires or standing up for themselves

  • Social withdrawal and avoidance of social situations due to fears of rejection or judgment

  • Unhealthy perfectionism and setting unrealistically high standards for self that contribute to feelings of inadequacy and failure when unable to meet them

When Is Low Self-Esteem A Problem?

Low self-esteem can negatively affect an individual’s ability to meaningfully engage in their life as it can stop them from participating in various activities due to lack of confidence in their abilities or fears about how others will perceive them. For example, an individual with low self-esteem may reject a valuable opportunity at work because they believe they are not competent enough to carry out the required tasks and fear failing or disappointing their colleagues. It can also impair their ability to maintain relationships, as many issues stemming from a negative self-image, such as difficulty asserting one’s needs or accepting feedback from others, can make communication and intimacy difficult. Furthermore, low self-esteem exacerbates mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.

How Do We Treat Low Self-Esteem?

Treatment for low self-esteem focuses on changing one’s negative self-perception and creating a more realistic, balanced view of the self. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help individuals struggling with low self-esteem with challenging their negative thought patterns and beliefs about themselves. Incorporating mindfulness, self-compassion, and practicing positive self-talk or daily affirmations can also be helpful for counteracting negative beliefs and increasing self-acceptance.