Self Esteem

November 4th, 2009 by Jenny Rees Davies

A lack of self esteem can manifest itself in a range of presenting problems such as depression, eating disorders, social or generalised anxiety or personality disorder. It can present itself as a tendency to be angry, intolerant, harshly critical and impatient with those people (including oneself) who do not meet one's expectations or standards.

With the aim of addressing and overcoming low self esteem counselling would include looking at beliefs such as feeling that one is bad, inferior, unwanted or unlovable, or the belief that one has failed or will inevitably fail. An important part of the work would include re-framing childhood memories and understanding their origin.

Also included would be the cognitive aspect of addressing negative automatic thoughts and correcting biases in perception, directing attention to qualities, assets, skills and strengths. Also identifying more realistic and helpful standards and rules, and putting them into practice.