What is Self-Esteem?

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According to Centers for Clinical Interventions, "Self-esteem usually refers to how we view and think about ourselves and the value that we place on ourselves as a person."  People with low self-esteem usually have deep-rooted negative beliefs about themselves and the kind of person they are.  These beliefs can be a result of experiences they've had in their lives and the conclusions they've drawn from those experiences.  Some things that people with low self-esteem may say to themselves on a regular basis include:

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"I'm ugly."

"I'm stupid."

"I'm unlovable."

"I'm worthless."

"I'm a loser."

"I'm not good enough."

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Low self-esteem can be a problem when it creates extreme emotional distress or causes us problems in our everyday lives.  People who experience low self-esteem may actually suffer from the larger problem of depression, as self-esteem is one symptom.  Low self-esteem can also be a result of other problems.  Sometimes when people experience problems over an extended period of time, it can affect their self-confidence and as a result, their self-esteem.

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Treatment of Low Self-Esteem:

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Therapy can be helpful in overcoming low self-esteem.  It can address the underlying causes and help you learn strategies for coping.  Therapy can help you identify your own self-talk and gain insight into how it leads to low self-worth.  It can then teach you how to challenge and replace any irrational thoughts with those that are more rational and balanced in order to help you accept yourself for who you are.