For years I have had very low self-esteem even though I have tried to brush it off. I have found myself faking confidence for so long that I can't tell when it's real. I have always felt like I am not good enough and have been so hard on myself for so long. My counsellor and the program here is starting to help me challenge those thoughts I've had for so long. My inner voice is constantly influencing my behaviour. I do experience anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression, and problems with friendships and relationships. I used to do poorly in school as well but once I started college I knew I had to at least change that no matter how I felt. Working hard to have good grades now does help my esteem a little bit, but that harsh negative voice inside is still sometimes telling me that I'm not good enough.
Members, Has an illness, addiction or other left your self-esteem in the gutter? In the weeks to come, we will be exploring various strategies to help rebuild your self-esteem:
Your Inner Voice
We all have one. A voice that although we cannot hear is constantly repeating messages that will either be reassuring if we have a good level of self-esteem, if we have a low self-esteem, the voice is a harsher critic. This voice also has a tendency to incessantly belittle accomplishments.
The Consequences of Low Self-Esteem
The consequences of low self-esteem can include: anxiety, stress, loneliness, increased risk for depression, problems with friendships & relationships, impaired academic & job performance, underachievement and increased risk for substance abuse. Does your inner voice influence your behaviour? Have you already experienced some of the consequences listed above because of your low self-esteem?
