Self-esteem
Self-esteem is the opinion you have of yourself and includes a combination of the following:
- your value as a person
- your occupation/role or purpose in life
- your achievements
- how you think others see you
- your place in the world
- your potential for success
- your strengths and weaknesses
- your social status and how you relate to other people
- your independence
Above information adapted from (www.more-selfesteem.com 
)
When your self-esteem is low, you may view life in a negative way which may lead to feel feelings of hopelessness and depression. You may also view yourself as a victim and other people as potential enemies who will take an advantage of you. At the other end of the scale, when your self-esteem is high, you feel good about life, other people and yourself. You also feel able to be assertive and express your feelings and opinions openly and honestly, and others respond positively to you. This strengthens the positive way in which you are behaving and viewing yourself and, in turn, reinforces your self-esteem. People's self-esteem generally alters in response to events that occur, such as a physical illness, bullying or domestic violence, but, most of the time, it lies towards the positive end of the spectrum. However, some people do not have a positive view of themselves and others and, therefore, they can not bounce back easily from experiences that may dent their self-esteem further. (Adapted from MIND booklet How to Increase Your Self-esteem)
How can we help you
- Gateway Team - the access point to mental health services
- Poole Book Prescription Scheme
The following books are available from local libraries and to purchase from book shops:
"Overcoming Low Self-Esteem" by Melanie Fennell
"The Feeling Good Handbook" by David Burns
"Self-Esteem for Women" by Lynda Field
"Self-Esteem" by Gael Lindenfield
"10 Days to Great Self-Esteem" by David Burns
Below are detailed web links to information on self-esteem:
- www.mind.org.uk/Information/Booklets/How+to/How+to+increase+your+self-esteem.htm
- www.mind.org.uk/Information/Booklets/Other/Conquering+a+sense+of+inferiority.htm
- www.more-selfesteem.com
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