Self-Esteem
Do you often feel awkward and self-conscious in social settings? Are you constantly comparing yourself to others and perceiving you never measure up?
Self-esteem speaks to how we think and feel about ourselves. When one has high self-esteem, they feel confident, centered, and worthy of love. People with low self-esteem often feel shame and self-doubt. They often feel critical of themselves and perceive they are unworthy of love or praise.
Recognizing Low Self-Esteem – Individuals with low self-esteem typically cope by using one of the following strategies:
- Imposter Syndrome – Projecting false confidence and using accomplishments to mask their insecurities. Perfectionists and procrastinators are usually in this group.
- Rebellion – Pretending to not care about what others think of them. Feelings of inferiority may often come across as anger or blame. Some may act out by defying authority and even breaking the law.
- Victimhood – In this scenario, low self-esteem causes the person to feel helpless in the face of life’s challenges. They may play the role of the victim and rely on others.
These can be some of the outcomes of low self-esteem:
- Depression and anxiety
- Lack of joy in life
- Anger, guilt, sadness
- Self-doubt
- A lack of resilience
- Loneliness
- Isolation
- Eating issues
- Codependency
- Self-harm, substance abuse
- Unhealthy relationships
Treatment for Low Self-Esteem
Many people develop their self-esteem issues in childhood and have been living with low self-esteem for a very long time. Others may develop low self-esteem later in life as a result of unhealthy relationships - personal and professional.
If you suffer from low self-esteem and would like to explore treatment options, please reach out to me. I will always treat you with respect, listen attentively, provide feedback and collaborate with you in setting goals to help you develop a healthier sense of self.
I look forward to working with you.