Introduction:
Self-esteem encompasses not only having a positive overall perception of oneself, but also recognizing one's own worth and importance, and placing value on one's thoughts, feelings, opinions, interests, and aspirations
When a person has low self-esteem, they have a negative perception of their own worth and value. This can involve several aspects, including self-confidence, sense of identity, feelings of competence, and sense of belonging.
Signs and Symptoms:
Although not classified as a mental disorder, low self-esteem can have an impact on a person's thoughts, emotions, and behaviour patterns.
Symptoms of low self-esteem can vary from evident negative self-talk to subtle behaviour patterns of trying to please others. Regardless of the signs, a poor sense of self-worth can adversely affect one's overall well-being.
Individuals with low self-esteem may exhibit a variety of signs and symptoms that indicate their poor sense of self-worth.
- One common sign is a lack of confidence, where the person may doubt their abilities or feel inadequate.
- Another sign is an external locus of control, where they believe that their life is mainly controlled by external factors rather than their own actions.
- Negative social comparisons are also common, where individuals with low self-esteem may compare themselves unfavourably to others and feel inferior. They may have trouble asking for help or feel like they don't deserve it, and they may experience worry and doubt about their decisions or actions.
- Difficulty accepting compliments is another sign, where individuals may deflect or downplay positive feedback because they don't believe they deserve it. Negative self-talk, such as harsh self-criticism or a tendency to focus on flaws, is also common.
- Fear of failure may cause individuals with low self-esteem to avoid taking risks or pursuing goals, and they may have a poor outlook on the future. A lack of boundaries and a tendency to be a people-pleaser are also signs, where individuals may prioritize others' needs over their own or struggle to assert themselves in relationships or situations.
Causes:
Low self-esteem can stem from a variety of factors.
Some of the possible causes of low self-esteem include:
- Brooding over negative memories or thoughts
- Engaging in negative self-talk or self-criticism
- Having a mental health disorder
- Having low levels of resilience, using maladaptive coping skills
- Obsessively ruminating about a particular issue
These factors can interact with each other and create a vicious cycle of negative self-perception and behaviour.
It's important to identify the underlying causes of low self-esteem and address them in a constructive way, such as seeking therapy, practicing self-care, and cultivating positive self-talk and behaviour.
Happetive, your mental wellbeing companion, understands the importance of mental health in daily life. We offer Self-Help Tools and self-care resources, with Therapy Support available whenever you need it.