Self-esteem is key in rehab and addiction treatment, involving how individuals perceive and value themselves. Introduced by psychologist William James in the late 19th century, self-esteem has become recognised as a key component of mental well-being. In addiction recovery, it’s particularly important due to its influence on the recovery process. Low self-esteem, often accompanied by feelings of guilt, shame and hopelessness, can hinder efforts to overcome addiction. Enhancing self-esteem is therefore vital for a successful recovery. This enhancement involves recognising personal strengths, exploring values and beliefs, setting achievable goals and practicing self-compassion. In recovery terminology, “self-esteem building” refers to activities that create a healthier self-image, while “self-compassion” highlights the importance of kindness and understanding towards oneself during recovery, recognising setbacks as part of the process.

Self-esteem, your subjective sense of personal worth or value, is closely linked to self-confidence and a belief in one’s abilities and attributes. It influences motivation, mental well-being and overall quality of life. Healthy self-esteem involves a balance, avoiding extremes of too high or too low, which can both be problematic. Key elements of self-esteem include self-confidence, feelings of security, identity, sense of belonging and competence. The level of self-esteem typically stabilises in adulthood after increasing through adolescence.

High self-esteem is characterised by a firm understanding of one’s skills, maintaining healthy relationships, realistic expectations and the ability to express needs. On the other hand, low self-esteem can result in doubts about abilities, lack of motivation, relationship issues and feelings of unworthiness. Excessively high self-esteem may lead to overestimating abilities and entitlement.

Notably, self-esteem differs from self-efficacy, which is about beliefs in handling future actions or abilities. Factors like age, disability, illness, socioeconomic status, thought patterns and experiences with discrimination can impact self-esteem. It’s often shaped by life experiences, such as feedback from family and friends or experiences of unconditional positive regard.

Healthy self-esteem enables you to have a positive outlook, feel equal to others, express needs and accept your strengths and weaknesses. It motivates you to pursue goals and maintain healthy boundaries. Conversely, low self-esteem can manifest in constant self-doubt, difficulty expressing needs and prioritising others’ needs over your own, potentially leading to mental health disorders and impacting life quality.

Improving self-esteem involves becoming aware of and challenging negative thoughts, practicing positive self-talk and self-compassion and seeking professional help if needed. Therapy and medications can be effective in addressing underlying mental health issues related to self-esteem.

Self-esteem, shaped by various life experiences, tends to fluctuate throughout the lifespan. It often grows until around age 60, then stabilises before declining in old age. Factors such as a childhood filled with disapproval, dysfunctional family life, poor school environments or unsatisfactory work conditions can lead to low self-esteem. This sense of self-worth has a significant impact on different aspects of life, including academic and professional achievements, relationships and mental health. Contrary to being a fixed trait, self-esteem can change with life’s successes and setbacks.

Boosting self-esteem involves recognising that everyone has equal worth and importance. It’s helpful to avoid negative self-judgments and all-or-nothing thinking. Instead, treating oneself with the same kindness and understanding shown to a loved one can gradually shift perceptions and improve feelings of self-worth. Self-actualization, a concept introduced by psychologist Abraham Maslow, describes the pursuit of reaching one’s full potential. According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, once basic physiological and safety needs are met, individuals can seek fulfillment through creativity, intellectual growth and social progress, ultimately striving for self-actualization and realising their true potential.

Heartfelt appreciation

I used to believe

Caring, professional

You helped me

Excellent intervention services

I would like to thank you

Back Into Treatment

“Extremely professional”

You guys are amazing!!!