How Your Self-Esteem Affects Your Mental Health
Low self-esteem does not discriminate. It can be a reality for individuals of all ages. The way we think about ourselves directly impacts our mental health and overall well-being.
What is Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem refers to the way people feel about themselves. Someone with healthy or high self-esteem thinks positively about themselves and their capabilities. They believe they are deserving of respect and have no problem setting healthy boundaries.
Individuals with low self-esteem constantly measure themselves against others and always come up short. They may not think they are worthy of love and respect and will typically not set healthy boundaries, allowing others to take advantage of them.
How Does Low Self-Esteem Affect Mental Health?
The following are some ways low self-esteem can impact a person’s mental health:
Poor Relationships
Humans are wired for interpersonal connections; however, low self-esteem often gets in the way of these connections. Individuals living with low self-esteem experience self-doubt, isolation, and difficulty trusting the sincerity of others. These challenges can lead to poor relationships and loneliness.
Addiction
Studies indicate that low self-esteem during childhood can lead to the development of substance abuse later in life. Individuals with addictions often use alcohol and other substances as a way to cope with negative feelings about themselves.
Depression and Anxiety
Living with low self-esteem day after day, week after week, can very much take its toll and eventually lead to the development of depression and anxiety.
How to Build Your Self-Esteem
Healthy self-esteem is important to mental, emotional, and physical health. However, it’s not easy to improve one’s self-esteem once it has been damaged, and some individuals may not know how to do this on their own. A therapist can help identify core negative beliefs and determine the root cause. Then, help you develop a new, realistic self-esteem that reflects who you truly are.
If you or someone you know is struggling with low self-esteem and would like to explore treatment options, please get in touch with me.
SOURCES:
https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/July-2016/Why-Self-Esteem-Is-Important-for-Mental-Health
https://www.hormona.io/why-self-esteem-affects-your-mental-health/