How do you even raise self-esteem? It seems impossible?

[verylowselfesteem]

I have very low self-esteem, I don't even know how you are supposed to go about trying to raise it? For me I feel like I have a deep, chronic sense of shame about myself from childhood, I don't think it's possible to change?

Hi - yes it is! I’m currently having CBT specifically for that. I saw my gp who referred me, initially they put me on a general anxiety cbt course that wasn’t right for me but I’m 6 weeks into improving self confidence and honestly, it’s changing my life.

Don’t compare yourself to others and do esteemable things. Have you heard of Covey’s Seven Habits? It’s very easy to read and practical. His sone wrote a version for children which is even better IMO. It doesn’t specifically address self esteem which isn’t always a quick fix anyway but you’d really benefit from if you finding out about and following the seven habits.

I’d like to think it’s possible. I don’t want to stay this unhappy forever.

www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/raise-low-self-esteem/

www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-esteem/tips-to-improve-your-self-esteem/

You can self refer for talking therapies. Maybe something there could help? I’m currently speaking to someone tying to deal with my OCD & anxiety, I think I have enough issues for her to tackle without asking about my self esteem but when I said that I say that I’m stupid she did say about talking about yourself with kindness and that you shouldn’t say ‘I’m stupid’. You should dilute the impact by recognising the thought and acknowledge it by saying ‘I notice I’m having the thought that I’m stupid’ or whatever your thought it. Easier said than done. I’m going to watch this thread for more tips though.
www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/talking-therapies-and-counselling/nhs-talking-therapies/