Low Self-Esteem

Self-esteem in simple terms is a person's self evaluation. It is based on the opinion a person has about themselves and the degree to which they value themselves. It is one of the most important aspects of self concept — which includes self-esteem, abilities, strengths, likes, dislikes, beliefs and values — and self-esteem has been seen to have the most impact on how worthy a person feels in everyday engagement.

Many times people present unrelated concerns such as depression, obesity, anxiety, substance dependence, relationship difficulties or infertility, and more often than not a lack of self-esteem is at the source. Low self-esteem makes it difficult to handle everyday situations with confidence.

Self-esteem can go down after any experience of rejection, powerlessness or hurt: relationship issues, divorce, ill health, separation, disability, loss or failure. The ageing process itself might bring about a reduction in self-esteem through weight gain, loss of sexual functioning, or loss of previous skills or status. Some people feel their self-esteem has been low ever since they were children, which may be due to beliefs of worthlessness, or childhood events of neglect, abandonment, a parent's divorce or bullying.

Self-esteem is a relationship which people have with themselves, the way they regard themselves on a day to day basis. Healthy self-esteem is important for a person to feel fulfilled and satisfied.