Self-esteem

Low self-esteem can have a big impact on how you feel and the choices you make regarding your personal life, work and other day-to-day activities.

Low self-esteem can be restrictive, preventing you from making the most of opportunities as they present themselves and eroding your motivation to participate in some of the most joyful events in life. The lack of self-confidence that is often associated with low self-esteem robs you of your ability to try new things and expand existing skills thus reducing your chance to improve your self-esteem.  Low self-esteem is often associated with self-doubt, self-criticism, anger, shame and social isolation.

Even though self-esteem is learned in childhood, even adults with healthy self-esteem can go through periods of low self-esteem due to job loss, injury, relationship loss or issues, financial concerns, parenting concerns or even addiction/substance abuse problems.

There is good news though, self-esteem issues respond well to counselling and particularly goal-directed counselling. Counselling can help you identify and address the issues that contribute to your low self-esteem, whether they be present issues or past issues. Counselling can also help you develop a stronger sense of who you are, what your values are and assist you to become more confident and assertive.