Self-esteem is the opinion we have about ourselves. It plays a crucial role in our mental health and can impact our social relationships, work, and overall well-being. Having low self-esteem can be a challenging and distressing experience, but it's important to remember that it's not permanent and can be improved with time and effort.

Low self-esteem can be caused by various factors, including negative life experiences, childhood experiences, and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. It can also develop from external factors, such as constantly comparing yourself to others, criticism and rejection, traumatic events or cultural or societal expectations. It can manifest in different ways, including negative self-talk, people-pleasing, and avoiding social situations.

If you're experiencing low self-esteem, you may notice some of the following signs: feeling insecure, having negative thoughts about yourself, struggling to accept compliments, feeling anxious or fearful of social situations, and having a negative body image. It's essential to recognize these signs and take action to improve your self-esteem.

Here are some tips that may help you cope with low self-esteem:

Identify and challenge negative self-talk: Pay attention to the negative thoughts you have about yourself and challenge them with positive affirmations. For example, if you catch yourself thinking "I'm not good enough," try to replace that thought with "I am capable, and I deserve to be happy."

Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and emotional needs. Make time for activities that bring you joy, eat healthy foods, and prioritize getting enough rest and exercise.

Set realistic goals: Setting achievable goals can help you build confidence and feel more accomplished. Break down big goals into smaller, achievable ones and celebrate your successes along the way.

Surround yourself with positive influences: Spend time with people who uplift and support you, and distance yourself from those who bring you down. This can be challenging, but it's essential to your well-being.

Seek professional help: If you're struggling with low self-esteem, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. They can provide you with tools and strategies to improve your self-esteem and help you manage any underlying mental health conditions.

Remember that improving your self-esteem is a journey, and it takes time and effort. Be kind and patient with yourself, and don't give up. With the right support and strategies, you can build a healthy sense of self-esteem and live a happier, more fulfilling life.

If you are struggling with your self esteem, and you would like help finding a way through your difficulties, please get in touch with Hope and Harmony to see how counselling can help you.