Low self-esteem is a reality for countless kids, teens, and young adults, and its existence can be puzzling to parents who see their children as smart, beautiful, and creative beings. For some people, low self-esteem is pervasive and can prevent them from interacting with friends, doing well in school, and taking on new challenges. Teasing from peers, ostracism, social comparisons, media images, or chronic negative feedback from others can all contribute to low self-esteem in the form of negative self-talk, poor body image, and self-hate.
Signs that your young person may be struggling with low self-esteem can include depressed mood, anxiety about social interaction, excessive worries, and withdrawal from friends or family. Though it is an issue with potentially serious consequences, I work to support clients in addressing low self-esteem by using straightforward therapeutic techniques that challenge warped thinking and beliefs about self and/or that address the hurtful experiences that have undermined their confidence in themselves.
