Low Self-Esteem
A persistent negative view of yourself that affects daily life
Quick Facts
- Type: Mental and emotional wellbeing
- Core feature: Negative beliefs about one's own worth
- Linked to: Anxiety, depression, body image concerns
- Helpful approaches: Therapy, self-care, supportive relationships
Overview
Self-esteem is how a person values and views themselves. Low self-esteem means having a persistently negative view of one's own worth, abilities, or appearance. People with low self-esteem often feel inadequate, unlovable, or not good enough, even when there is little reason to feel that way. It is common and can affect anyone at any age.
Low self-esteem is not a mental illness in itself, but it can affect mood, relationships, work, and overall wellbeing, and it is closely connected to conditions such as anxiety and depression. The good news is that self-esteem can grow and improve over time with supportive relationships, self-care, and, when needed, professional help such as therapy. Low self-esteem can also relate to body image concerns seen in body dysmorphic disorder and eating disorders.
Self-esteem naturally rises and falls with life's events, and almost everyone doubts themselves at times. Low self-esteem becomes a concern when negative beliefs are persistent, feel deeply true, and hold a person back from relationships, opportunities, or wellbeing. Because these beliefs are learned over time, they can also be unlearned, especially with support, practice, and sometimes professional help.
Signs
Low self-esteem can show up in thoughts, feelings, and behavior, such as:
- Harsh self-criticism and frequent negative self-talk
- Feeling inadequate, unworthy, or unlovable
- Difficulty accepting compliments or believing in your strengths
- Fear of failure, leading to avoiding challenges or taking too few risks
- Sensitivity to criticism and a strong need for approval
- Difficulty setting boundaries or saying no
- Withdrawing socially or comparing yourself unfavorably to others
- Low mood, anxiety, or feeling stuck
If low self-esteem comes with persistent sadness, hopelessness, or thoughts of self-harm, it is important to seek help promptly.
Causes
Low self-esteem usually develops from a mix of experiences and influences:
- Early experiences: Harsh criticism, neglect, bullying, or difficult childhood relationships.
- Stressful or traumatic events: Abuse, loss, or repeated failures and setbacks.
- Ongoing pressures: Difficult relationships, work stress, or financial strain.
- Mental health conditions: Anxiety and depression both feed and result from low self-esteem.
- Social comparison: Unrealistic standards, including those amplified by social media.
- Body image concerns: Dissatisfaction with appearance.
Risk Factors
- A history of childhood neglect, criticism, or bullying
- Past trauma or abuse
- Anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions
- Chronic stress or difficult life circumstances
- Perfectionism and frequent social comparison
- Body image concerns or chronic illness
Evaluation
Low self-esteem is not a formal diagnosis, but a mental health professional can explore it and any related conditions:
- Discussion of feelings and history: Understanding self-beliefs, experiences, and how they affect daily life.
- Screening for related conditions: Checking for anxiety, depression, or eating and body image concerns.
- Assessing impact: Looking at how self-esteem affects relationships, work, and wellbeing.
Talking openly with a counselor, therapist, or doctor is a helpful first step.
Building Healthier Self-Esteem
Self-esteem can be strengthened over time with several approaches:
- Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy and other talking therapies help challenge negative beliefs and build healthier thinking.
- Self-compassion practices: Treating yourself with the kindness you would offer a friend.
- Setting realistic goals: Building confidence through small, achievable steps.
- Supportive relationships: Spending time with people who are encouraging and respectful.
- Self-care: Sleep, activity, and managing stress support mood and confidence.
- Treating related conditions: Addressing anxiety, depression, or body image concerns.
Progress takes time and patience, and support from others makes a real difference.
Self-Care
- Notice and gently challenge harsh self-criticism
- Focus on your strengths and small accomplishments
- Set boundaries and practice saying no when needed
- Limit comparison, including on social media
- Surround yourself with supportive, respectful people
- Seek professional help if low self-worth is persistent or distressing
When to See a Doctor
Consider seeing a doctor or counselor if low self-esteem is persistent, distressing, or affecting your relationships, work, or daily life, or if it comes with anxiety or depression. Seek help promptly if you feel hopeless, are withdrawing from life, or are struggling to cope. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or feel that life is not worth living, treat it as an emergency and call your local emergency number or a suicide and crisis line right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is low self-esteem?
Low self-esteem is a persistent negative view of your own worth, abilities, or appearance. People with it often feel inadequate or unlovable, are very self-critical, and struggle to accept their strengths. It is common and can affect mood, relationships, and daily life.
What causes low self-esteem?
It usually develops from a mix of experiences, such as harsh criticism, bullying, neglect, or trauma, along with ongoing stress, social comparison, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Body image concerns can also contribute. Often several factors combine over time.
Can low self-esteem be improved?
Yes. Self-esteem can grow with time and effort. Therapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, self-compassion practices, realistic goals, supportive relationships, and self-care all help. Treating related conditions like anxiety or depression also makes a big difference. Progress takes patience.
Is low self-esteem a mental illness?
Low self-esteem is not itself a mental illness, but it is closely linked to conditions like depression and anxiety and can both cause and result from them. When it is persistent or distressing, professional support can help, especially if other symptoms are present.
When should I seek help for low self-esteem?
Seek help if low self-esteem is persistent, distressing, or affecting your relationships, work, or wellbeing, or if it comes with anxiety or depression. Get help right away if you feel hopeless or have thoughts of harming yourself, and treat any thoughts of suicide as an emergency.
References
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Self-esteem and mental health.
- American Psychological Association (APA). Building self-esteem and resilience.
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Caring for your mental health.
- Mayo Clinic. Self-esteem: Take steps to feel better about yourself.