Events from the past or in the present day can impact our self-esteem and confidence. This can lead to negative effects on our quality of life and contribute to other mental health conditions such as anxiety or low mood. Some causes can include;

Being bullied or abused

Gaslighting or manipulation

Experiencing prejudice, discrimination or stigma, including racism

Losing your job or difficulty finding employment

Problems at work or while studying

Physical health problems

Mental health problems

Relationship problems, separation or divorce

Problems with money or housing

Worries about your appearance and body image.

Feeling pressure to meet unrealistic expectations, for example through social media

Building self-esteem and managing the impact on your mental health can be difficult to do alone. Working with a non-judgemental and empathetic counsellor can help you start to understand where your self-opinion comes from.

We will work with you at your own pace towards building a kinder, more balanced relationship with yourself. Some of the areas we may explore together to help you make this lasting meaningful change will include:

More awareness of your personal history and how this impacts who you are today can be eye-opening.

Starting to notice and change your specific patterns of negative self-talk.

Start practising self-compassion, rather than self-blame.

Exploring your strengths, values and wants from your life.

Set small, achievable goals to help you rebuild your confidence, one step at a time.

Prioritise your emotional needs and wants. This includes making self-care a priority.

Learn how to set healthier boundaries in your relationships and practise sticking to them.

"You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection" -Buddha.