What is "self esteem"?
Self-esteem refers to an individual's subjective sense of self-worth and personal value. It involves a person's beliefs and feelings about their abilities, qualities, and characteristics, and can significantly impact their mental health, behavior, and social interactions. Individuals with high self-esteem tend to have more positive attitudes towards themselves, are more resilient in the face of challenges, and are more likely to take healthy risks and pursue their goals.
In self-esteem therapy, those who lack self-worth might receive professional help with top psychologists and online therapists. An online counsellor through online counselling can assist clients in identifying and minimising negative self-talk, learn affirmation for confidence, affirmation self love, Along with goal-setting, people can practice self-compassion, both of which are associated with higher self-esteem. Increasing self-esteem might take time. By seeking online counseling at TalktoAngel one can develop skills to improve self esteem, soem of the steps suggested by counselor like: Be kind to yourself, Try to recognise positives, Building a support network, Set yourself a challenge, and Look after yourself regularly.
Types of self esteem
Self-esteem is a person's total perception of their own value and worth. There are different types of self-esteem, which can vary in terms of stability and underlying causes. Here are some examples:
1. High self-esteem: This type of self-esteem involves a positive and stable sense of self-worth, confidence, and self-respect. Individuals with high self-esteem tend to have a positive outlook on life and are able to handle challenges and setbacks with resilience.
2. Low self-esteem: This type of self-esteem involves a negative and unstable sense of self-worth, often accompanied by feelings of shame, guilt, and self-doubt. Individuals with low self-esteem may struggle with confidence and have difficulty asserting themselves and setting boundaries.
3. Defensive self-esteem: This type of self-esteem involves a fragile sense of self-worth that is highly dependent on external validation and approval. Individuals with defensive self-esteem may become defensive or reactive when their self-worth is challenged or criticized.
4. Narcissistic or inflated self-esteem: This type of self-esteem involves an inflated sense of self-worth, often accompanied by a sense of entitlement and a lack of empathy for others. Individuals with narcissistic self-esteem may have difficulty accepting criticism or feedback and may struggle with interpersonal relationships.
5. Worthiness-based self-esteem: This is a type of self-esteem that derives from a person's inherent value as a human being, rather than external factors such as accomplishments or success. Worthiness-based self-esteem allows people to feel a sense of security and confidence in who they are as individuals, regardless of their achievements or successes.
6. Competence-based self-esteem: It refers to the type of self-esteem that is based on an individual's perception of their competence and ability in certain areas, such as academics, sports, or other skills. It is based on a person's belief that they are capable of achieving their goals and being successful in areas that are important to them. This type of self-esteem can be beneficial, as it provides individuals with a sense of confidence and motivation to achieve their goals
Signs & Symptoms of self esteem
Confidence
Positive self-image
Ability to accept criticism
Resilience
Self-care
Anxiety
Self-esteem refers to the overall subjective assessment of oneself, including one's worth value as a person. While there are no specific signs or symptoms of self-esteem, there are some characteristics that individuals with healthy self-esteem may exhibit. These include:
1. Confidence: Individuals with healthy self-esteem tend to be confident in their abilities and decisions. A confident mindset is seeing the world around you through the lens that your actions, & not your feelings, can drive you forward in life.
2. Positive self-image: Individuals with healthy self-esteem tend to have a positive self-image and view themselves positively. When we have a positive self-image, we are realistic about our liabilities and limits while also acknowledging and owning our potential and strengths.
3. Ability to accept criticism: Individuals with healthy self-esteem are able to accept constructive criticism without becoming overly defensive or feeling overly criticized. While advancing and growing, constructive criticism enables us to become aware of our shortcomings. Keep an open mind and remember that the individual providing you advice wants you to succeed.
4. Resilience: Individuals with healthy self-esteem tend to be more resilient and better able to cope with stress and setbacks. Self-esteem's mediating effects on resilience have a favourable impact on life satisfaction and psychological suffering.
5. Self-care: Individuals with healthy self-esteem tend to take care of themselves physically, emotionally, and mentally.
On the other hand, individuals with low self-esteem may exhibit negative self-talk, self-doubt, and self-criticism. They may also be more prone to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. If you are struggling with self-esteem issues, it may be helpful to seek the support of a mental health professional or an online counsellor who can help you develop strategies to improve your self-esteem and overall well-being.
Myths & Facts about self esteem
Fact :
While external factors can certainly impact self-esteem, true self-esteem comes from within and is based on a sense of self-acceptance, self-respect, and self-love.
Fact :
While self-esteem can be influenced by early experiences and learned patterns of thinking and behavior, it is a skill that can be developed and strengthened through intentional effort and practice.
Fact :
While high self-esteem can be beneficial in many areas of life, it does not guarantee success or happiness. Success and happiness are influenced by a variety of factors, including personal circumstances, mental and physical health, and social support.
Fact :
Low self-esteem is a common issue that can impact individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. It is not a sign of weakness or inadequacy, but rather a reflection of learned patterns of thinking and behavior.
Fact :
Building self-esteem is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and attention. It may involve challenging negative self-talk, practicing self-care and self-compassion, and seeking support from others.
All Areas
addiction
adhd
adjustment disorder
anger
anxiety
assertiveness
autism
autoimmune diseases
bipolar disorder
body image
breakup
bullying
burnout
career issues
cheating & infidelity
child & adolescent
chronic pain
communication disorder
complex ptsd
conduct disorder
couple conflicts
dating concerns
dependence
depression
developmental delay
disinhibited social engagement disorder
diversity & inclusion
divorce
domestic violence
eating disorder
emotion control
emotional abuse
family problem
fomo (fear of missing out)
friendship
gender identity
generalized anxiety disorder
goal setting
grief and loss
healthy boundary
hoarding disorder
hypertension
identity crisis
impulse control disorder
in-laws adjustment problem
infertility
intellectual disability
interpersonal problem
intimacy
job satisfaction
lgbtq+
loneliness
low motivation
managing tough boss
managing work culture
marriage
midlife crisis
mindfulness
motherhood
ocd
oppositional defiant disorder
panic disorder
parenting
peer pressure
personality disorder
phobia
physical health
polycystic ovary syndrome disease
positive work attitude
post traumatic stress disorder (ptsd)
postpartum depression
premarital
premenstrual dysphoric disorder
prevention of sexual harassment
procrastination
psycho-oncology
reactive attachment disorder (rad)
relationship
resilience
schizophrenia
self esteem
self improvement
sensory processing disorder
sexual dysfunction
sexual wellness
sleep
social anxiety
social comparison
social isolation
somatic symptom and related disorders
specific learning disabilities
stress
test anxiety
tic disorders
time management
toxic relationship
workplace
workplace stress
youth empowerment & entrepreneurship
Online Counselling
Causes, Issues and challenges of self esteem
Boundaries are an essential aspect of our lives. They define the limits of our personal space, our relationships, and our interactions with the world around us. While healthy boundaries are crucial for our well-being, unhealthy boundaries can lead to a lot of problems. There are various reasons for unhealthy boundaries.
1. Fear of rejection or abandonment: One of the most common causes of unhealthy boundaries is the fear of rejection or abandonment. We may feel that if we set boundaries, we will push people away, and they will reject us. This fear can make us hesitant to set boundaries and can lead to us accepting behaviors that are not acceptable or tolerable.
2. Low self-esteem: Low self-esteem can also lead to unhealthy boundaries. When we do not value ourselves, we may be more willing to compromise our boundaries to please others or to avoid conflict. We may also feel that we do not deserve to have our needs met and may allow others to take advantage of us.
3. Lack of assertiveness: A lack of assertiveness can also contribute to unhealthy boundaries. When we are not assertive, we may have difficulty expressing our needs and desires and may allow others to dictate our behavior. This can lead to us feeling resentful and frustrated, as we are not living in accordance with our values.
5. Childhood experiences: Childhood experiences can also impact our ability to set healthy boundaries. If we grew up in an environment where our boundaries were not respected or where we were expected to sacrifice our needs for others, we may struggle to establish healthy boundaries as adults. We may also have difficulty recognizing when our boundaries are being violated.
6. Cultural and societal influences: Cultural and societal influences can also play a role in unhealthy boundaries. In some cultures, there may be an emphasis on putting the needs of the group before the needs of the individual, which can make it difficult to set boundaries. Additionally, societal messages about gender roles and expectations can also impact our ability to set and maintain healthy boundaries.
While self-esteem can be a positive and important aspect of mental health, there are also some potential issues and challenges associated with low self-esteem. Low self-esteem can have a number of negative effects on a person's life, including:
Negative self-talk: People with low self-esteem often engage in negative self-talk, criticizing themselves and focusing on their flaws and weaknesses.
Lack of confidence: Low self-esteem can cause people to doubt their abilities and feel insecure, leading to a lack of confidence in themselves and their decisions.
Relationship problems: Low self-esteem can make it difficult to form and maintain healthy relationships, as people with low self-esteem may feel unworthy of love and respect.
Anxiety and depression: Low self-esteem can contribute to the development of anxiety and depression, as well as other mental health issues.
Avoidance behaviors: People with low self-esteem may avoid challenging situations or opportunities for growth, fearing failure or rejection.
Substance abuse: Low self-esteem can contribute to substance abuse and other unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Academic or work-related problems: Low self-esteem can interfere with academic and work performance, as people with low self-esteem may struggle to believe in their abilities or take risks.
These issues can be interrelated, and low self-esteem can have a significant impact on a person's overall well-being and quality of life. Seeking online counselling or online therapy from the best psychologists in India can be helpful developing positive self-esteem.
Self-esteem refers to an individual's overall sense of self-worth or value.
1. Negative self-talk
2. Social withdrawal
4. Self-sabotage
6. Depression and anxiety
Low self-esteem can also have a significant impact on families. Here are some common issues and challenges faced by families when one or more members have low self-esteem:
1. Communication problems
2. Negative family dynamics
3. Self-doubt
4. Overcompensation
6. Emotional distress
Treatment of self esteem
Self-esteem refers to a person's overall sense of self-worth and confidence. Treatment for self-esteem issues typically involves a combination of therapies and support, including:
1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a psychotherapeutic treatment that aims to modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to low self-esteem. It is a structured and goal-oriented approach used by best psychologists to identify and challenge negative self-talk, beliefs, and assumptions.
2. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT is a form of psychotherapy that promotes psychological flexibility and acceptance of one's self and life circumstances. Through in-person therapeutic session or online counselling, an individual can identify and accept negative thoughts and emotions rather than trying to avoid or suppress them.
3. Positive affirmations: Developing positive affirmations, such as repeating positive statements to oneself, can help individuals build a more positive and confident self-image.
4. Building positive relationships: Building positive relationships with others, such as through social activities or support groups, can provide emotional support and validation, which can help improve self-esteem.
5. Self-care: Practicing self-care, such as getting enough rest, exercise, and healthy food, can help improve overall well-being and support a positive self-image.
6. Setting achievable goals: Setting and achieving achievable goals can help individuals build confidence and a sense of accomplishment, which can improve self-esteem.
7. Developing skills and interests: Developing new skills and interests can help individuals build confidence and a sense of competence, which can improve self-esteem.
Self-esteem management involves developing strategies and skills to maintain and improve one's self-worth and confidence. Here are some strategies for managing self-esteem:
Challenge negative thoughts - Become aware of negative self-talk and beliefs and replace them with more positive, realistic ones. This takes practice but can improve self-esteem over time.
Set goals and achieve them - Accomplishing meaningful goals, even small ones, boosts confidence and self-worth. Set goals that are challenging but achievable.
Build new skills - Learn a new hobby, skill or information that you find interesting. Mastering new abilities increases competence and confidence.
Spend time with positive people- Surround yourself with friends and family who support and believe in you. Their confidence in you can translate to your own.
Practice self-care - Make time for activities you enjoy and that reduce stress. Prioritizing your needs communicates to yourself that you are worthy of care.
Try something new - Stepping outside your comfort zone through new experiences can provide a sense of adventure and achievement that fosters self-esteem.
Volunteer or help others - Helping those in need gives you a sense of purpose and value. Focus on what you have to offer rather than your insecurities.
Practice gratitude - Make a habit of reflecting on things you appreciate in your life, both big and small. Gratitude counters negative feelings and low self-worth.
Avoid comparisons - Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not someone else. Social comparisons typically lead to feelings of inadequacy.
Speak kindly to yourself - Replace negative self-talk with positive self-affirmations. Be your own biggest cheerleader! Over time, this will rewire your internal dialogue.
By using these strategies regularly and taking help through online counselling with the best psychologists in India and online counsellors, you can start to see yourself in a kinder, more optimistic light. Focus on progress, not perfection!
Benefits of Online Counselling for self esteem
Online counseling can provide several benefits for individuals looking to improve their self-esteem. Counselling and online therapy can help improve self-esteem in several ways:
Identify and challenge negative thought patterns - An online therapist can help you become aware of distorted or negative thoughts about yourself. Once negative thoughts are identified, online counsellors can work with you to dispute them and replace them with more realistic, positive self-talk. This over time can improve your overall self-concept.
Build coping skills - Though online counselling, best psychologist in India can teach you skills like mindfulness, positive affirmations, assertiveness and goal setting to improve how you think and feel about yourself.
Increase self-confidence - By focusing on your strengths, values and accomplishments, an online counsellor can help build your confidence in yourself and your abilities.
Set attainable goals - Best psychologists in India through online counselling can aid in setting goals that are challenging but realistic, tailored to your needs and interests. Achieving goals helps improve self-esteem.
Provide validation - A good online therapist will validate your feelings and experiences, which can help compensate for a lack of self-worth. Their support shows you that you deserve care and respect.
Model health self-esteem - An online counselor with a healthy sense of self can model for you what positive self-esteem looks and sounds like. This provides an example for you to follow.
Process past experiences - Examining past events or relationship patterns that shaped your self-esteem can provide insight on how to rebuild it in a healthier way.
Create an action plan - During online counselling session, your online counsellor can help you develop specific, actionable strategies to improve your self-esteem and maintain the changes you've made.
Best Therapists in India for self esteem
Self-confidence & self-esteem are commonly used interchangeably. A measure of confidence in one's performance is self-confidence. It impacts how we see other people and interact with the outside environment and consists of ideas and feelings. Self-esteem, or the capacity to love, respect, and value oneself, is the ability to do this for oneself. Suppose you are struggling with self-esteem, self-worth, or self-confidence. In that case, Talktoangel can connect you with trained therapists, top psychologists, motivational coaches, and top online counsellors to boost affirmation for self-love, and self-confidence to improve your self-esteem & build a positive self-image.
self esteem Related Blogs
Frequently Asked Questions on self esteem
It is the subjective evaluation of one's own abilities, qualities, and characteristics. Self-esteem can be influenced by a range of factors, such as experiences, relationships, and cultural norms.
Individuals with high self-esteem tend to have a positive view of themselves and their abilities and are more likely to take risks, pursue their goals, and handle challenges with resilience. Conversely, individuals with low self-esteem may have a negative view of themselves and their abilities and may struggle with confidence, assertiveness, and emotional regulation.
Self-esteem can be nurtured through positive experiences, supportive relationships, and healthy coping strategies. Building self-esteem can involve challenging negative self-talk, setting and achieving personal goals, and developing a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can also be helpful for individuals looking to improve their self-esteem.
Self-esteem is important for a number of reasons:
1. Mental health: Self-esteem has a significant impact on mental health. Individuals with high self-esteem are more likely to experience positive emotions, such as happiness and contentment, and less likely to experience negative emotions, such as anxiety and depression.
2. Resilience: Individuals with high self-esteem are more resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks. They are more likely to persevere through difficult times and bounce back from adversity.
3. Positive relationships: Self-esteem can also impact the quality of an individual's relationships. People with high self-esteem tend to have more positive and fulfilling relationships because they are more confident in themselves and their abilities.
4. Achievement: Self-esteem can also influence an individual's ability to achieve their goals. People with high self-esteem are more likely to set and pursue challenging goals, take risks, and persist in the face of obstacles.
5. Physical health: Self-esteem can also have an impact on physical health. Studies have shown that individuals with high self-esteem are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as exercise and good nutrition, and less likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse.
Self-esteem is important because it plays a critical role in an individual's overall well-being, resilience, and success in life. By building self-esteem, individuals can experience greater happiness, fulfillment, and achievement in all areas of their lives.
Negative self-talk: Individuals with low self-esteem may engage in negative self-talk, such as criticizing themselves or doubting their abilities.
2. Perfectionism: Low self-esteem can lead to perfectionism, or setting unrealistic expectations for oneself.
3. Social withdrawal: Individuals with low self-esteem may avoid social situations or withdraw from relationships due to fear of rejection or criticism.
4. Lack of assertiveness: Individuals with low self-esteem may struggle with assertiveness and have difficulty speaking up for themselves or setting boundaries.
5. Self-neglect: Low self-esteem can lead to self-neglect, such as neglecting personal hygiene or engaging in unhealthy behaviors.
6. Anxiety and depression: Low self-esteem can contribute to anxiety and depression, and may exacerbate symptoms of mental health conditions.
7. Avoidance of challenges: Individuals with low self-esteem may avoid challenges or opportunities for growth due to fear of failure or negative self-judgment.
8. Seeking validation from others: Individuals with low self-esteem may seek constant validation or approval from others, and may feel a heightened sense of anxiety or insecurity in the absence of external validation.
Improving self-esteem is a process that can take time and effort, but it is possible with self-awareness, self-compassion, and intentional practice. Here are some strategies that individuals can use to improve their self-esteem:
1. Practice self-compassion: Self-compassion involves treating yourself with kindness and understanding, even in the face of mistakes or failures. This can involve reframing negative self-talk and practicing self-care.
2. Identify and challenge negative self-talk: Negative self-talk can undermine self-esteem. Identifying and challenging negative self-talk can involve questioning the accuracy of negative beliefs and replacing them with more positive and realistic self-talk.
3. Set and achieve goals: Setting and achieving personal goals can help to build self-esteem by providing a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
4. Practice self-care: Engaging in self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature, can help to improve self-esteem by reducing stress and promoting well-being.
5. Build on strengths: Focusing on personal strengths and accomplishments can help to build self-esteem by reinforcing positive self-concepts.
6. Seek support: Seeking support from trusted friends, family members, or online counsellors can provide emotional validation and practical guidance for building self-esteem.
7. Challenge yourself: Challenging yourself can help to build self-esteem by demonstrating personal growth and achievement. This can involve stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying new things.
There are several common myths about self-esteem that can be harmful and misleading. Here are some of them:
1. Myth: High self-esteem is the same as arrogance or narcissism.
Reality: High self-esteem is not the same as arrogance or narcissism. Individuals with high self-esteem are confident in their abilities and value themselves, but they also have empathy for others and are able to acknowledge their own weaknesses and mistakes.
2. Myth: Self-esteem comes from external validation.
Reality: Self-esteem should come from within. While external validation can be helpful, it is important for individuals to develop a positive and realistic self-concept based on their own strengths and accomplishments.
3. Myth: Low self-esteem is a sign of weakness or personal failure.
Reality: Low self-esteem is a common experience for many people, and is not a reflection of personal weakness or failure. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as past experiences, cultural norms, or mental health conditions.
4. Myth: Criticizing or punishing oneself is an effective way to improve self-esteem.
Reality: Criticizing or punishing oneself can actually worsen self-esteem by reinforcing negative self-concepts and undermining self-confidence. Self-compassion and positive self-talk are more effective strategies for building self-esteem.
5. Myth: Self-esteem is fixed and cannot be changed.
Reality: Self-esteem is not fixed and can be improved with intentional practice and self-awareness. While it may take time and effort to improve self-esteem, it is possible with the right strategies and support.
Yes, self-esteem can be measured using a variety of self-report measures. Self-report measures are questionnaires or surveys that ask individuals to rate their own self-esteem. The most commonly used measure of self-esteem is the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, which consists of 10 items that assess an individual's overall sense of self-worth or value. Other self-report measures of self-esteem include the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory and the Self-Esteem Rating Scale.
Researchers may also use other methods to assess self-esteem, such as behavioral observation, physiological measures, or social comparison tasks. For example, researchers may observe an individual's behavior in social situations or measure physiological responses to stress to assess self-esteem.
Self-esteem is a complex and multifaceted construct, and no single measure can capture all aspects of self-esteem. Self-report measures may be subject to biases or inaccuracies, and other methods of assessment may be influenced by situational factors or individual differences. Therefore, it is important to use multiple methods of assessment and to interpret results in the context of an individual's unique experiences and circumstances.
Parents can play a crucial role in helping their children develop healthy self-esteem. Here are some strategies that parents can use to foster self-esteem in their children:
1. Provide unconditional love and support: Children thrive when they feel loved and supported unconditionally. Parents can provide this by offering praise and encouragement for their child's efforts and accomplishments, without attaching conditions or expectations.
2. Encourage independence and autonomy: Encouraging children to make their own choices and take responsibility for their actions can help to build self-esteem by promoting feelings of competence and self-efficacy.
3. Set realistic expectations: Setting realistic expectations that are appropriate for a child's age and ability level can help to prevent feelings of failure or inadequacy.
4. Foster a growth mindset: Encouraging a growth mindset, where children believe they can improve their skills and abilities with effort and practice, can help to build self-esteem by promoting a sense of progress and accomplishment.
5. Help children develop coping skills: Teaching children coping skills, such as problem-solving and emotion regulation, can help to build resilience and confidence in their ability to handle challenges.
6. Model positive self-talk and self-care: Parents can model positive self-talk and self-care behaviors, such as taking care of their physical and emotional health, and engaging in positive self-talk, to demonstrate healthy self-esteem behaviors for their children.
7. Avoid criticism and comparison: Criticizing or comparing a child to others can be damaging to self-esteem. Instead, parents can focus on the child's unique strengths and accomplishments, and provide constructive feedback in a supportive and positive manner.
Teachers can play an important role in promoting healthy self-esteem in their students. Here are some strategies that teachers can use to foster self-esteem in the classroom:
1. Encourage a growth mindset: Teachers can promote a growth mindset, where students believe that they can improve their skills and abilities with effort and practice. This can help to build self-esteem by promoting a sense of progress and accomplishment.
2. Provide positive feedback: Teachers can provide positive feedback and praise for students' efforts and accomplishments, which can help to build self-esteem and reinforce positive self-concepts.
3. Set achievable goals: Setting achievable goals and providing opportunities for students to experience success can help to build self-esteem by promoting feelings of competence and self-efficacy.
4. Create a positive classroom environment: Teachers can create a positive and supportive classroom environment by promoting respect, empathy, and inclusion. This can help to build self-esteem by providing a sense of belonging and acceptance.
5. Foster student autonomy: Encouraging student autonomy and allowing students to make their own choices can promote self-esteem by promoting feelings of independence and self-efficacy.
6. Address negative self-talk: Teachers can address negative self-talk by helping students to identify and challenge negative beliefs and replace them with positive self-talk.
7. Model healthy self-esteem behaviors: Teachers can model healthy self-esteem behaviors, such as self-care, positive self-talk, and self-acceptance, to demonstrate healthy self-esteem behaviors for their students.
Social media can have a significant impact on an individual's self-esteem, both positively and negatively. Here are some ways that social media can affect self-esteem:
1. Social comparison: Social media can facilitate social comparison, where individuals compare themselves to others based on their social media profiles and posts. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem, especially if individuals perceive others as having a more attractive or successful life.
2. Filtered reality: Social media profiles and posts are often curated and filtered to present a perfect or idealized version of oneself. This can create unrealistic expectations and fuel feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem.
3. Feedback and validation: Social media can also provide opportunities for feedback and validation, which can impact self-esteem. Positive feedback and validation can boost self-esteem, while negative feedback or lack of validation can undermine self-esteem.
4. Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying, or the use of technology to harass or intimidate others, can have a significant impact on self-esteem, particularly for young people. Victims of cyberbullying can experience feelings of shame, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
5. Fear of missing out (FOMO): Social media can also contribute to a fear of missing out (FOMO), where individuals feel pressure to constantly check social media for updates and information. This can lead to feelings of anxiety or low self-esteem if individuals perceive themselves as being left out or excluded.
Providing positive feedback,
encouraging a growth mindset,
creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment,
fostering student autonomy, celebrating diversity,
providing opportunities for success,
modeling positive behavior.
Recognize that criticism or rejection is not a reflection of your worth. It's important to remember that everyone experiences rejection or criticism at some point, and it doesn't mean that you are not worthy or valuable as a person.
Challenge negative self-talk. When you hear negative self-talk in your head, challenge it with positive affirmations. For example, instead of thinking "I'm not good enough," try thinking "I have many strengths and qualities that make me unique and valuable."
Focus on your strengths and accomplishments. Remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments often, and celebrate them. Recognize that you have many positive qualities and talents that make you who you are.
Seek support from friends, family, or an online therapist. Talking to someone you trust about your feelings of rejection or criticism can help you process your emotions and build resilience. An online counsellor can also provide additional support and guidance on how to build healthy self-esteem.
Self-esteem is closely related to mental health and can have a significant impact on an individual's emotional and psychological well-being. Here are some ways that self-esteem relates to mental health:
Depression and anxiety: Low self-esteem is a common risk factor for depression and anxiety, and can contribute to feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and low mood.
Substance abuse: Individuals with low self-esteem may be more likely to engage in substance abuse as a way to cope with negative emotions or to seek validation from others.
Eating disorders: Eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, are often associated with low self-esteem and negative body image.
Relationship problems: Low self-esteem can contribute to relationship problems, such as difficulty setting boundaries, fear of rejection or abandonment, and difficulty expressing one's needs and desires.
Poor academic or work performance: Low self-esteem can contribute to poor academic or work performance by reducing motivation, self-efficacy, and confidence in one's abilities.
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors: Low self-esteem can be a risk factor for suicidal thoughts or behaviors, particularly in individuals who feel hopeless or helpless about their situation.
Distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy self-esteem can be challenging, but there are some key differences that individuals can look for. Here are some characteristics of healthy and unhealthy self-esteem:
Healthy self-esteem:
1. Based on internal factors: Healthy self-esteem is based on an internal sense of self-worth and value, rather than external validation or approval from others.
2. Realistic and balanced: Healthy self-esteem involves a realistic and balanced view of oneself, including acknowledging strengths and weaknesses and accepting imperfections.
3. Resilient: Healthy self-esteem is resilient in the face of setbacks or failures and is characterized by a growth mindset that sees setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth.
4. Empathetic: Individuals with healthy self-esteem are able to show empathy and compassion for themselves and others, and are not overly critical or judgmental.
Unhealthy self-esteem:
1. Based on external factors: Unhealthy self-esteem is based on external validation or approval from others, and may involve seeking validation through achievement, appearance, or social status.
2. Unrealistic or imbalanced: Unhealthy self-esteem may involve an unrealistic or imbalanced view of oneself, such as overestimating one's abilities or putting oneself down excessively.
3. Fragile: Unhealthy self-esteem is fragile and easily shaken by setbacks or failures, and may lead to feelings of shame or inadequacy.
4. Judgmental: Individuals with unhealthy self-esteem may be overly critical or judgmental of themselves and others, and may struggle with feelings of anger or resentment.
Healthy self-esteem:
1. Based on internal factors: Healthy self-esteem is based on an internal sense of self-worth and value, rather than external validation or approval from others.
2. Realistic and balanced: Healthy self-esteem involves a realistic and balanced view of oneself, including acknowledging strengths and weaknesses and accepting imperfections.
3. Resilient: Healthy self-esteem is resilient in the face of setbacks or failures and is characterized by a growth mindset that sees setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth.
4. Empathetic: Individuals with healthy self-esteem are able to show empathy and compassion for themselves and others, and are not overly critical or judgmental.
Unhealthy self-esteem:
1. Based on external factors: Unhealthy self-esteem is based on external validation or approval from others, and may involve seeking validation through achievement, appearance, or social status.
2. Unrealistic or imbalanced: Unhealthy self-esteem may involve an unrealistic or imbalanced view of oneself, such as overestimating one's abilities or putting oneself down excessively.
3. Fragile: Unhealthy self-esteem is fragile and easily shaken by setbacks or failures, and may lead to feelings of shame or inadequacy.
4. Judgmental: Individuals with unhealthy self-esteem may be overly critical or judgmental of themselves and others, and may struggle with feelings of anger or resentment.
Individuals can identify their self-esteem by reflecting on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to their sense of self-worth and value. Here are some questions that individuals can use to assess their self-esteem:
1. How do I feel about myself? Do I generally feel positive or negative about myself and my abilities?
2. What messages have I received about my self-worth from others, such as family members, friends, or teachers?
3. How do I talk to myself? Do I use positive or negative self-talk?
4. How do I react to feedback or criticism? Do I take it personally, or am I able to accept it in a constructive way?
5. How do I handle setbacks or failures? Do I see them as opportunities for growth and learning, or do they trigger feelings of inadequacy or hopelessness?
6. How do I treat myself? Do I engage in self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones, or do I neglect my own needs and desires?
7. How do I compare myself to others? Do I compare myself to others in a way that is constructive and motivating, or do I constantly feel inferior or inadequate?
Culture plays a significant role in shaping self-esteem, as different cultures have different values, beliefs, and social norms that can influence how individuals see themselves and their self-worth. Here are some ways that culture can impact self-esteem:
1. Cultural values: Cultural values can shape how individuals define success, happiness, and self-worth. For example, in some cultures, academic or professional achievement may be highly valued, while in others, family or community relationships may be prioritized.
2. Social norms: Social norms, such as beauty standards or gender roles, can influence how individuals see themselves and their self-worth. For example, in some cultures, being thin may be seen as desirable, while in others, a more curvaceous body type may be valued.
3. Interpersonal relationships: Cultural norms around relationships, such as how individuals express emotions or show respect for authority figures, can impact how individuals see themselves and their self-worth in relation to others.
4. Stereotypes and discrimination: Stereotypes and discrimination based on cultural identity, such as race or ethnicity, can have a significant impact on self-esteem, particularly for individuals who experience prejudice or discrimination.
5. Cultural identity: Cultural identity, including language, religion, and traditions, can influence how individuals see themselves and their self-worth. Embracing one's cultural identity can contribute to a sense of pride and positive self-concept.
6. Collective vs. individualistic cultures: In collective cultures, such as many Asian or African cultures, the emphasis is on group harmony and a sense of belonging, which can lead to a lower focus on individual achievement and self-promotion. In individualistic cultures, such as Western cultures, the emphasis is on individual achievement and self-expression, which can lead to a higher focus on self-esteem.
