Self-esteem is the way we perceive and value ourselves. When we have healthy self-esteem, we can acknowledge both our strengths and imperfections without feeling defined by them. However, when self-esteem is low, it can feel like we are never “good enough,” leading to self-doubt, self-criticism, and difficulty recognising our own worth.
Low self-esteem can affect many areas of life, including relationships, work, and mental wellbeing. It can develop due to past experiences, negative self-talk, perfectionism, or comparisons to others. Over time, these patterns can make it harder to trust ourselves, assert our needs, or take on new challenges.
The good news is that self-esteem is not fixed – it can be built, strengthened, and improved with the right support and strategies.
At The Victorian Psychology Clinic we recognise that addressing low self esteem requires a tailored, evidence-based approach. In line with our values, we aim to work collaboratively with our clients, referrers and other professionals involved in our clients care including general practitioners, other allied health professionals and psychiatrists.
Signs and Symptoms of Low Self Esteem:
Low self-esteem doesn’t always mean feeling down all the time. It can manifest in different ways, sometimes without us even realising it.
Common symptoms include:
- Constant self-criticism: Harsh inner dialogue, feeling like you’re never doing “enough.”
- Fear of failure or making mistakes: Avoiding challenges due to fear of not measuring up.
- Difficulty accepting compliments: Brushing off positive feedback or feeling like you don’t deserve it.
- Comparing yourself to others: Feeling inferior or that others are always more capable or successful.
- Struggling with boundaries: Saying “yes” when you mean “no” to avoid conflict or disappointing others.
- Perfectionism: Feeling that you must meet impossibly high standards to feel valued.
- Avoiding new experiences: Holding back from opportunities due to fear of not being “good enough.”
- Feeling like an imposter: Doubting your abilities even when you have evidence of success.
Low self-esteem can also contribute to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or social withdrawal, making it even harder to break free from negative thought patterns.
Treatment for Low Self Esteem
Building self-esteem is a gradual process that involves shifting self-perception, challenging negative beliefs, and practicing self-compassion.Therapy can also be a valuable tool for unpacking the root causes of low self-esteem and developing healthier thought patterns. Some evidence-based strategies include:
- Challenging Negative Self Talk: Noticing and questioning unhelpful thoughts rather than accepting them as facts.
- Identifying Strengths and Compassion: Identifying personal values and recognising what you do well and treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend.
- Setting realistic goals: Taking small steps outside your comfort zone to build confidence.
- Practicing assertiveness: Learning to express your needs and opinions without guilt.
- Reducing comparison: Focusing on your own journey rather than measuring yourself against others.
- Building supportive relationships: Surrounding yourself with people who encourage and uplift you.
How we can support you
At VPC, we provide evidence-based interventions to help clients build self-esteem, develop self-acceptance, and improve confidence.
- Our psychologists can support you in challenging unhelpful beliefs, shifting self-perception, and fostering a more balanced and compassionate view of yourself.
- Our psychologists work collaboratively with you to determine the root cause of your low self esteem.
- Our Psychologists are there to help you as you build the life you want to live.
If low self-esteem is affecting your daily life, relationships, or mental health, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Support is available.
We have a number of clinicians who work with eating disorders. To learn more, please refer to our Psychologists page for clinician details.
If you are currently experiencing eating difficulties or body image concerns and would like to begin your journey to recovery, get in touch with us. We are here to help.