Signs of low self-esteem or low confidence

Low self-esteem

• are highly critical of themselves

• ignore or downplay their positive qualities

• think they are inferior to their peers

• use negative words when describing themselves

• has negative self-talk

• avoid taking credit for their achievements, instead putting it down to luck

• blame themselves for things that go wrong rather than considering other factors that are out of their control

• does not believe compliments about them

Low confidence

• feelings of self-doubt

• passive or submissive behavior

• difficulty trusting others

• feeling inferior to others

• overly sensitive to criticism

• feeling unloved

People may feel confident in certain areas, such as work or studies, but less confident in other areas, such as pe

Causes

Causes of low self-esteem may stem from childhood. If a person does not receive love, affection, and positive interactions in childhood, they may lack a sense of worth or inner value. If people grow up experiencing a high level of pain or hurt, this may negatively affect their self-esteem. Constant criticism may harm self-esteem and a person’s negative self-talk. Several factors may affect confidence, such as:

• results at work or school

• the media and social media

• body image and feelings about appearance

• the level of support people have around them

• achievements or skill levels

• physical and mental health issues

• feeling the need to conform or fit in with peers

• perfectionism

• comparison to others

• a pressure to achieve or excel in certain areas

• bullying or abuse

• stigma or discrimination

• moving away from a safe or familiar area or loved ones

• family or relationship problems