What is Low Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem is a person’s overall appraisal of his or her self-worth. It is considered a personality trait, which develops in childhood, and affects a person’s behaviors, social interactions, and overall well-being. Persons with low self-esteem lack confidence in their social relationships, often feeling like a failure. They may not assert themselves, and may exhibit dependent behaviors. They may lose their temper easily, and blame others for their problems. There may be body image distortions with low self-worth.
What causes Low Self-Esteem?
Low self-esteem originates in childhood. 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. Adverse experiences as an adult can also cause low self-esteem, such as unemployment, marital difficulties or divorce, financial problems, health problems or psychological trauma. Psychological issues such as depression or anxiety, and personality disorders are also interrelated with low self-esteem.
What are the symptoms of Low Self-Esteem?
People with low self-esteem may lack social skills and self-confidence, isolating themselves from others. They may lack assertiveness, having difficulty giving their own opinion or asking for what they want. Their thoughts may be pessimistic or overly negative. The lack of self-worth makes them unable to accept criticism and defensive. Additionally, eating disorders and substance abuse are common problems in persons with low self-esteem.
What is the Prognosis for Low Self-Esteem?
If low self-esteem is associated with a specific psychological problem, that problem must be addressed first. Furthermore, if substance abuse or alcoholism are exacerbating the low self-esteem, treatment must be directed towards these problems. Low self-esteem can be addressed with psychological treatment and, when appropriate, medication. Effective psychotherapy, sleep and stress management, and psycho-education, can significantly improve a person’s esteem and confidence.
Persons with low self-esteem with associated psychological problems may be reluctant or afraid to seek treatment. Establishing the proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan is extremely important. Substance abuse and self-medication is also prevalent among persons with low self-esteem. Both dramatically interfere with effective psychological and medical treatment. Persons with low self-esteem may be isolated from family or loved ones, thus lacking an effective social support structure that is important to help with their recovery.
How does PCH Treatment Center treat Low Self Esteem?
If low self-esteem is associated with a specific psychological problem, that problem must be addressed first. Furthermore, if substance abuse or alcoholism are exacerbating the low self-esteem, treatment must be directed towards these problems. Low self-esteem can be addressed with psychological treatment and, when appropriate, medication. Effective psychotherapy, sleep and stress management, and psycho-education, can significantly improve a person’s esteem and confidence.
Persons with low self-esteem with associated psychological problems may be reluctant or afraid to seek treatment. Establishing the proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan is extremely important. Substance abuse and self-medication is also prevalent among persons with low self-esteem. Both dramatically interfere with effective psychological and medical treatment. Persons with low self-esteem may be isolated from family or loved ones, thus lacking an effective social support structure that is important to help with their recovery.
Our Programs
Contact PCH Treatment Center
Understanding Social Media Effects on Mental Health
Understanding Social Media Effects on Mental Health Posted by Terry Krekorian, MD Posted on July 21, 2022 Categories: Depression, General Key Points: In less than two decades, social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have...
