What is Self-Esteem?
The term “self-esteem” describes how much or little confidence a person has in their own worth and abilities. This confidence affects everything people do in our lives–our relationships with others, thoughts, and behaviors.
For example, someone with low self-esteem may believe that they do not have their ability to reach a goal or that they do not deserve to reach their goals. As such, they may not even try to succeed.
The Importance of Healthy Self-Esteem
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a well-known theory that describes human behavior, needs, and psychology. This hierarchy describes self-esteem as the center of what drives humans. Having healthy self-esteem is as important as such as food security, finances, and love.
Self-esteem can be unhealthy by either being too high or too low. Someone can exhibit unusually high self-esteem which might indicate a narcissistic personality disorder. When someone has self-esteem that is too low, it can affect their mood and even cause depression.
When someone has healthy self-esteem, they can create meaningful relationships, have the confidence they need to chase their goals, and feel fulfilled.
How To Recognize Low Self-Esteem
It can be difficult to recognize low self-esteem in yourself. The negative thoughts patterns can go on for so long that they seem normal. Furthermore, if you truly believe the negative things that those thoughts say, you may believe your self-esteem is just right.
Low self-esteem can manifest in many different ways. Some people may act meek while others overcompensate for their low confidence. This overcompensation may cause people to bully others. Low self-esteem can also cause mental health disorders such as:
- Depression
- Social Anxiety
- Body Dysmorphia
- Eating Disorders
Therapy for Low Self-Esteem
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can help people overcome low self-esteem. First, a qualified mental health care provider helps the individual identify the reasons for their unhealthy self-esteem. Then, the patient and professional can work together to identify negative thinking and behavioral patterns and turn them around. This is known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Teletherapy for Self-Esteem
CBT can be effective both in-person and online. Teletherapy connects patients with low self-esteem to licensed therapists through secure video conferencing. Patients benefit from the same secure, effective help from the comfort of home.
Whether you can make it to our offices or not, we can help. Our providers give the same care and compassion to teletherapy patients as in-person patients. Book your appointment online today to start your journey to healthy self-esteem.