Self-esteem describes how we see ourselves as individuals, including confidence, self-respect, and what we value or believe about ourselves. Improving self-esteem can be difficult, as it is not always easy for people to recognise when they do not value themselves.

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Low self-esteem may present as:​

• Saying negative things and being critical about yourself.

• Joking about yourself in a negative way.

• Focusing on your negatives and ignoring your achievements.

• Blaming yourself when things go wrong.

• Feeling inadequate, for example thinking other people are better than you.

• Feeling unworthy, for example thinking you don't deserve to have fun.

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Low self-esteem is not a mental health problem in itself but can sometimes be a sign of a mental health problem if it is ongoing for some time.

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Low self-esteem can occur for a number of reasons, including:

• Feeling stressed or overwhelmed with tasks or responsibilities,

• Experiencing a break-up or separation

• Experiencing bullying, abuse, or discrimination

• Having physical or mental health problems

• Having concerns about appearance or body image

• Problems with money or housing.