What is Self-Esteem

Self-esteem refers to how we think about ourselves and the value we place on ourselves as a person. While anyone may feel uncertain of themselves or lack self-confidence at some point in their lives, troubles with self-esteem means that a person has a tendency to unduly judge or evaluate oneself negatively, especially during stressful or challenging situations.

Self-esteem issues become troubling when the following occurs

• Chronic self-criticism: Deep-seated negative thoughts and beliefs  of self, leading to constantly feeling inadequate or unworthy, and engaging in perpetual harsh self-criticisms on one own’s behaviour and actions. Example of negative self-talk such as “I am weak, useless, worthless”
• Fear of failure or rejection: Avoiding opportunities or challenges out of fear of not being good enough.
• Social withdrawal: Isolating oneself due to feelings of inferiority, or avoiding social interactions.
• Over-dependence on validation: Relying excessively on others’ approval to feel good about oneself.
• Difficulty setting boundaries: Struggling to assert needs or have difficulty saying no, often leading to being taken advantage of.
• Perfectionism: Setting impossibly high standards and feeling devastated by any perceived failure.
• Impact on mental health: Leading to or worsening conditions like depression, anxiety, or eating disorders.

• Difficulty accepting compliments
• Tendency to assume blame
• Rejection sensitivity