Self-esteem refers to how comfortable and confident we feel with ourselves and with others throughout life, in interactions and relationships. We often learn, at a very young age, to feel that we are not as valuable as other people. We often feel less worthy, or ashamed. Some people have an inner voice that creates negative self-talk or we put ourselves down in our thoughts or even in our words. We may allow others to take advantage of us or to not treat us well.

 

Self-esteem can be improved. Old thoughts and lessons we have learned over time can be unlearned or replaced by new, more positive thoughts. We can learn how to feel better about ourselves and recognize our inherent value. Therapy can help people to recognize strengths and realize that negative self-thoughts are not true and are not helpful.