Please note: This website is best viewed in a modern browser like Chrome, Edge or Firefox. We no longer support Internet Explorer 11.

Low Self Esteem / Confidence

What is Low Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem is the opinion we have of ourselves. When we have healthy self-esteem, we tend to feel positive about ourselves and about life in general. When our self-esteem is low, we tend to see ourselves and our life in a more negative and critical way.
 

If you have low self-esteem you may feel:

  • Like you hate or dislike yourself
  • Worthless or not good enough
  • Unable to make decisions or assert yourself
  • Feel like no one likes you
  • Blame yourself for things that aren't your fault
  • Unable to recognise your strengths
  • Undeserving of happiness
  • Low in confidence

We all have times when we lack confidence and don’t feel good about ourselves, but when low self-esteem becomes a long-term problem, it can have a harmful effect on our mental health and our lives.

Key Point

  • Avoid negative self-talk
  • Connect with people who love you
  • Learn to be assertive
  • Set yourself a challenge
  • Focus on your positives
  • Take care of yourself
  • Get support if things get too much

Other places that can help

Mind

Explains how to increase your self-esteem, giving practical suggestions for what you can do and where you can go for support.

Helplines - Contact Information

Suicide Bereavement Support