Therapy for Self-Esteem
Do you experience anxiety or depression? Do you often feel awkward or self-conscious in social situations? Are you frequently comparing yourself to others and feeling like you don’t measure up?
Self-esteem is how we feel about ourselves. When someone has high self-esteem, they generally feel confident, grounded, and worthy of love. People with low self-esteem may experience feelings of shame, self-doubt, and criticism, often feeling unworthy of love or recognition.
Recognizing Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem can show up in different ways. Some common patterns include:
Imposter Syndrome – This occurs when someone projects false confidence and uses their achievements to mask insecurities. Perfectionists and procrastinators may identify with this pattern.
Self-Sacrifice – Individuals may often put others' needs ahead of their own, believing they don’t deserve to prioritize themselves or their own well-being. This can lead to burnout or feeling undervalued.
- Avoidance – In this case, someone may avoid challenges or opportunities for fear of failure, believing they aren’t capable or worthy of success. This can lead to missed opportunities and a sense of stagnation.
Regardless of how low self-esteem shows up, the effects are often similar:
Depression and anxiety
A lack of joy in life
Feelings of anger, guilt, or sadness
Self-doubt
Difficulty coping with challenges
Loneliness or isolation
Struggles with body image or disordered eating
Difficulty with setting boundaries
Engaging in unhealthy coping mechanisms
Treatment for Low Self-Esteem
The good news is that self-esteem can be improved. By changing how we think about ourselves, our behaviors, and the beliefs we hold, it’s possible to build a healthier sense of self. Since self-esteem issues often develop early in life and may have been carried for a long time, it’s helpful to work with a trained therapist for support.
A knowledgeable and supportive therapist can help explore the roots of low self-esteem and provide tools to shift negative beliefs and self-talk toward self-compassion and acceptance.
If you’re experiencing low self-esteem and are interested in exploring treatment options, please reach out to us at Centerpiece Behavioral Health Services. We’re here to support you.