Self-Esteem

SNOMED Terms

• Atypical depressive disorder

• Bipolar II disorder, most recent episode major depressive

• Chronic bipolar II disorder, most recent episode major depressive

• Depressive disorder

• Generalised social phobia

• Mild bipolar II disorder, most recent episode major depressive

• Mixed anxiety and depressive disorder

• Moderate bipolar II disorder, most recent episode major depressive

• Severe bipolar II disorder, most recent episode major depressive with psychotic features

• Severe bipolar II disorder, most recent episode major depressive without psychotic features

• Severe bipolar II disorder, most recent episode major depressive, in partial remission

• Severe bipolar II disorder, most recent episode major depressive, in remission

• Single major depressive episode, severe, with psychosis

• Social phobia

Goals

• Elevate self-esteem.

• Develop a consistent, positive self-image.

• Demonstrate improved self-esteem through more pride in appearance, more assertiveness, greater eye contact, and identification of positive traits in self-talk messages.

• Establish an inward sense of self-worth, confidence, and competence.

Behavioral Definitions

• Inability to accept compliments.

• Makes self-disparaging remarks; sees self as unattractive, worthless, a loser, a burden, unimportant; takes blame easily.

• Lack of pride in grooming.

• Difficulty in saying no to others; assumes not being liked by others.

• Fear of rejection of others, especially peer group.

• Lack of any goals for life and setting of inappropriately low goals for self.

• Inability to identify positive things about self.

• Uncomfortable in social situations, especially larger groups.

Diagnoses

• Social Phobia

• Dysthymic Disorder

• Major Depressive Disorder

• Bipolar I Disorder

• Bipolar II Disorder

Effects of Low Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem can have a wide range of negative effects on an individual's life. Here are some of the most common effects:

Negative self-image: Individuals with low self-esteem often have a negative self-image. They may see themselves as unworthy, unlovable, or inadequate.

Anxiety and depression: Low self-esteem is often associated with anxiety and depression. Individuals with low self-esteem may feel anxious about social situations or worry about what others think of them. They may also experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness.

Difficulty making decisions: Low self-esteem can make it difficult for individuals to make decisions. They may lack confidence in their ability to make the right choice and worry about making mistakes.

Relationship problems: Low self-esteem can also affect relationships. Individuals with low self-esteem may have difficulty asserting themselves or setting boundaries. They may also be more likely to tolerate mistreatment from others.

Academic or work problems: Low self-esteem can affect academic and work performance. Individuals with low self-esteem may be less likely to take on challenging tasks or pursue new opportunities. They may also be more likely to give up when faced with obstacles.

Substance abuse: Low self-esteem is a risk factor for substance abuse. Individuals with low self-esteem may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with negative feelings.

Overall, low self-esteem can have a significant impact on an individual's well-being and quality of life. However, with the help of therapy and other supportive resources, it is possible to improve self-esteem and overcome these negative effects.

Effects of High Self-Esteem 

Having high self-esteem can have many positive effects on an individual's life. Here are some of the most common effects:

Improved mental health: Individuals with high self-esteem are less likely to experience anxiety and depression. They tend to have a more positive outlook on life and are better able to cope with stress.

Better relationships: Individuals with high self-esteem are more likely to have positive, healthy relationships. They are better able to communicate their needs and set boundaries, which can lead to more fulfilling relationships with others.

Academic and work success: Individuals with high self-esteem are more likely to take on challenging tasks and pursue new opportunities. They tend to be more confident in their abilities, which can lead to greater academic and work success.

Improved physical health: Individuals with high self-esteem are more likely to take care of their physical health by exercising, eating well, and getting enough rest. They are also less likely to engage in risky behaviors that can negatively affect their health.

Resilience: Individuals with high self-esteem are more resilient and better able to bounce back from setbacks or failures. They have a more positive attitude and are better able to learn from their mistakes.

Overall, high self-esteem can have a significant positive impact on an individual's well-being and quality of life. It can lead to greater success in various areas of life and a more positive outlook on the world.

Trauma-Based Low Self-esteem

Trauma can have a significant impact on an individual's self-esteem. Trauma-based low self-esteem occurs when an individual's self-esteem is affected by traumatic experiences they have endured.

Here are some ways that trauma can impact an individual's self-esteem:

Negative beliefs about oneself: Traumatic experiences can lead to negative beliefs about oneself. For example, an individual who has experienced abuse may believe they are unworthy of love or respect.

Self-blame: Trauma can lead to feelings of guilt and self-blame. An individual may believe that they are responsible for what happened to them, leading to a negative self-image.

Shame: Trauma can also lead to feelings of shame. An individual may feel ashamed of what happened to them or feel like they are somehow flawed or defective.

Difficulty trusting others: Trauma can make it difficult for individuals to trust others, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. This can also contribute to low self-esteem, as individuals may feel like they are not worthy of love or friendship.

Avoidance: Individuals who have experienced trauma may avoid situations or activities that remind them of the traumatic experience. This can lead to a lack of confidence and a negative self-image.

Treating trauma-based low self-esteem often involves therapy, specifically trauma-focused therapy. Trauma-focused therapy helps individuals process their traumatic experiences and develop coping skills to manage symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additionally, therapy can help individuals challenge negative beliefs about themselves and develop a more positive self-image.

How does Low Self-Esteem affect your life?

Here are some of the common effects:

Negative feelings: People with low self-esteem often experience a lot of negative self-talk. This can lead to feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety, anger, shame, or guilt.

Relationship problems: They may have trouble forming healthy relationships or may stay in unhealthy ones because they believe they don't deserve better.

Fear of trying: They may doubt their abilities and avoid challenges or new experiences. This can hold them back from reaching their full potential.

Stress and self-consciousness: They may feel anxious and self-conscious around others, constantly worried about what people think of them.

Poor self-care: They may neglect their own needs and well-being.

Increased risk of mental health problems: Low self-esteem can make people more susceptible to conditions like depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.

If you think you might be struggling with low self-esteem, there are resources available to help. You can talk to a therapist, counselor, or other mental health professional. There are also many self-help books and websites that can provide guidance and support.