Self-Esteem (Low Self-Worth)

1) What it is

Low self-esteem is a long-term pattern of feeling unworthy, inadequate, or less valuable than others. It often shows up as harsh self-criticism, people pleasing, and fear of judgement.

2) What it feels like

• “I’m not good enough.”
• “Everyone else is better than me.”
• “I don’t deserve good things.”

3) Common signs & symptoms

• harsh inner critic
• people pleasing and difficulty saying no
• fear of failure
• reassurance seeking
• overthinking how you come across

4) Why it happens (causes & risk factors)

• childhood criticism, neglect, bullying
• trauma or unstable relationships
• repeated rejection
• perfectionism and comparison
• anxiety or depression

5) Triggers

• criticism
• comparison
• mistakes
• social situations
• high expectations

6) What helps now

• speak to yourself like someone you love
• write evidence of small wins
• reduce comparison (especially social media)
• practise small boundaries
• try one brave action daily

7) Daily self-help support

• confidence grows through action
• track progress
• practise self-compassion

8) Professional treatment options

• CBT
• Compassion Focused Therapy
• counselling or trauma therapy

9) Medication

Medication may help if low self-esteem is linked to anxiety or depression, via GP.

10) Practical tips

• confidence is built, not found
• kindness improves resilience
• progress beats perfection

11) When to seek urgent help

Urgent help if:

• self-worth collapses
• mood deteriorates
• thoughts of self-harm appear

12) Where to get help (UK)

• NHS Talking Therapies
• Mind
• GP support

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