Self-esteem

What is self-esteem?

Self-esteem is how we think and feel about ourselves. It isn’t just about how we look, but also how confident we feel in who we are.

If our self-esteem is high, we’re not too worried about what other people think, or how much we get wrong, because we accept ourselves just the way we are, without judgment: we are more positive about life in general. When we have low self-esteem, it means we are probably low on confidence and more likely to see things in a negative light; we might find it hard to believe in ourselves and feel good enough. That’s okay! Most people struggle with self-esteem at some point in their life.

 

What can cause low self-esteem?

Things that have happened to us in the past, our mental health, or difficult situations at home can influence our self-esteem. It can also be affected by:

  • Problems at college
  • Bullying
  • A traumatic experience or experiences
  • Abuse or neglect
  • Friendships or relationships – the way people in our lives treat us
  • College or exam stress
  • Mental health problems
  • Physical health problems
  • Feeling under pressure to look or act a certain way
  • Experiencing discrimination
  • Social media and spending lots of time online

 

What can help?

 

 

 

 

Supporting your child with low self-esteem

If your child is struggling with low self-esteem, click on the links to find out how you can support them and places you can get help.

Information:  https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/parents-a-z-mental-health-guide/self-esteem/

You can also download this guide from YOUNGMiNDS:

 

 

 

 

References

  • Childrenssociety.org.uk
  • Mind.org.uk
  • Youngminds.org.uk

Further Information

  • Self-esteem, what can help?

    If low self-esteem feels too intense or last for too long, it could be a sign that you might need additional support. Talking about it can be really helpful and is often the first step to feeling better. Speak to a trusted friend or family member, or contact our Therapy Service on therapyservice@tvc.ac.uk to talk […]

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