The term “self-esteem” has become somewhat overused. Individuals who describe themselves as having low self-esteem may actually have a poor self-image and they are often genuinely depressed. The difference between low self-esteem and poor self-image is this: self-esteem is based on subjective feelings that change according to the current environment; self-image is one’s view of self, and beliefs about self, based on life experiences. The two can go hand-in-hand, but low self-esteem is a problem that is more easily and naturally resolved. (For more information on poor self-image, follow the link to our page on Depression.)
According to the National Association for Self-Esteem, self-esteem is “the experience of being capable of meeting life’s challenges and being worthy of happiness.” So, the question is, how do we get to a point where we feel that we are worthy of happiness? Learn more at their NA for Self Esteem page.
If you feel that you truly do have low self-esteem or poor self-image, please seek help from UWA Counseling Services.