What is self esteem

Self esteem is a person’s overall sense of self-worth or personal value. It refers to an individual’s perception and evaluation of their own abilities, characteristics, and worth as a person. High self esteem is characterised by feelings of confidence, competence, and self-respect, while low self esteem may result in feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and low self-confidence.

Do teenager girls struggle with their self esteem

Many teenager girls can struggle with their self esteem. Adolescence is a time of significant physical, emotional, and social change, and it is common for teenagers to experience fluctuations in their self esteem. During this time, they may compare themselves to their peers and feel pressure to meet societal expectations related to appearance, academics, and social status, which can lead to feelings of insecurity and low self esteem. 

Additionally, the use of social media and other forms of digital technology can also contribute to self esteem issues among teenage girls by presenting unrealistic expectations and causing comparison and feelings of inadequacy.

How does self esteem benefit us

Having high self esteem can bring several benefits to an individual, including:

1. Improved relationships: High self esteem allows individuals to have healthier and more fulfilling relationships, as they are better able to communicate their needs and boundaries and are less likely to engage in destructive relationship patterns.
2. Increased resilience: High self esteem can make individuals more resilient, allowing them to better handle stress and bounce back from adversity.
3. Better mental health: People with high self esteem are less likely to experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, as they are better able to cope with life’s challenges.
4. Improved decision making: High self esteem can help individuals make better decisions, as they are more likely to trust their own judgement and less likely to seek validation from others.
5. Increased confidence: High self esteem leads to increased confidence and self-assurance, allowing individuals to feel comfortable in their own skin and pursue their goals and aspirations.
6. Better performance: People with high self esteem are often more motivated and perform better in various areas of life, including work, school, and other pursuits.

Overall, having high self esteem can positively impact many areas of life and contribute to a sense of well-being and happiness.

What causes low self esteem

Low self esteem can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Childhood experiences: Negative experiences during childhood, such as abuse, neglect, or criticism from parents or peers, can negatively impact a person’s self esteem and sense of self-worth.
2. Trauma: Traumatic events, such as a natural disaster, accident, or physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, can also lead to low self esteem.
3. Mental health conditions: Certain mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, can affect a person’s self esteem and lead to feelings of worthlessness and low self-confidence.
4. Social comparison: Constant comparison with others, especially through social media, can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self esteem.
5. Appearance: Societal and cultural pressure to meet certain beauty standards can lead to low self esteem, especially for people who do not conform to these expectations.
6. Perfectionism: Holding oneself to extremely high standards or striving for perfection can lead to feelings of failure and low self esteem when these standards are not met.

It’s important to note that low self esteem can be a result of a combination of factors, and can have a significant impact on a person’s overall well-being and mental health.

How do you recognise self esteem in your children

Recognizing low self esteem in children can be challenging, as it may not always be obvious. However, some common signs of low self esteem in children include:

1. Negative self-talk: Children with low self esteem may often speak negatively about themselves, using words such as “stupid,” “ugly,” or “worthless.”
2. Avoiding challenges: Children with low self esteem may avoid new experiences or tasks, as they fear failure and the impact it will have on their self-esteem.
3. Difficulty making friends: Children with low self esteem may have trouble making and maintaining friendships, as they may feel unworthy or inferior to others.
4. Physical symptoms: Low self esteem can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, and fatigue, as stress and anxiety can take a physical toll.
5. Withdrawal: Children with low self esteem may withdraw from social situations and spend more time alone, as they may feel unworthy of attention or friendship.
6. Aggression: Low self esteem can also lead to aggressive behaviour, as children may act out in an attempt to feel better about themselves.

It’s important to remember that children’s self esteem can fluctuate, and that these signs may not always indicate a larger issue. However, if you suspect that your child is struggling with low self esteem, it may be helpful to speak with a trusted adult or mental health professional for support.

How can I develop self esteem?

Developing self esteem can take time and effort, but there are several strategies that can help:

1. Practice self-care: Engaging in activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good can help boost your self esteem and sense of self-worth.
2. Challenge negative thoughts: Identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself can help you reframe them in a more positive light.
3. Focus on your strengths: Identify your unique strengths, abilities, and accomplishments and focus on these, rather than your weaknesses or failures.
4. Surround yourself with positive people: Surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people who believe in you and your abilities can help build your self esteem.
5. Set achievable goals: Setting achievable goals and celebrating your successes, no matter how small, can help build your self esteem and sense of competence.
6. Practice self-compassion: Treating yourself with kindness, compassion, and understanding, instead of self-criticism and negativity, can help build your self esteem.
7. Seek professional help: If you are struggling with low self esteem, seeking support from a mental health professional can be a helpful way to develop self esteem and manage related issues.

Remember, building self esteem takes time, and it is an ongoing process. Be kind and patient with yourself, and focus on making small, positive changes that support your growth and well-being.

Does rugby help with self esteem?

Participating in rugby can potentially help with self esteem in several ways:

1. Achieving goals: Setting and achieving personal goals in rugby can increase feelings of competence and boost self esteem.
2. Building confidence: Developing skills and making progress in rugby can increase confidence and self-assurance.
3. Improving physical fitness: Improving physical fitness and health through rugby can lead to an increased sense of self-worth and improved body image.
4. Building camaraderie: Rugby is often a team sport, which can foster a sense of belonging and increase social connections, leading to improved self esteem.
5. Overcoming challenges: Rugby can be a physically and mentally demanding sport, which can help individuals develop a growth mindset and increase resilience.

However, it is important to remember that individual experiences will vary and that participating in rugby may not necessarily improve self esteem for everyone. Additionally, it is important to participate in sports in a safe and responsible manner to avoid injury and further impact on self esteem.