Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence

Self-esteem is a person’s overall appraisal of his or her self-worth. Self-esteem develops in childhood and affects a person’s behaviors, social interactions, and overall well-being.  Adverse childhood experiences such as a home life lacking in safety or love, excessive criticism, problems with physical appearance or health, physical or sexual abuse, or other traumatic events can lead to low self-esteem as an adult.  Traumatic experiences as an adult can also cause low self-esteem, such as unemployment, marital difficulties or divorce, financial problems, health problems or psychological trauma.  Depression, anxiety, and personality disorders are also interrelated with low self-esteem.  Some common symptoms of low self-esteem:

• Do you lack confidence in social relationships or often feel like a failure?
• Do you lack social skills and self-confidence?
• Do you find it easy and more comfortable to isolate yourself from others?
• Do you find it difficult to assert self around others?
• Is it difficult for you to express your own opinion or ask for what you need?
• Do you lose your temper easily and blame others for your problems?
• Do you dislike the way your body looks (even if others tell you otherwise)?
• Do your thoughts tend to be pessimistic or overly negative?
• Do you find it difficult to accept criticism from others?
• Do you struggle with an eating disorder or use substances as a means of coping?

If you identify with these symptoms, don’t wait to get help.  Call (602) 633-4032 and make an appointment for counseling and begin the path to healing.