Do you look up to somebody in your life? Do you feel somebody is better than you? If yes, you might be a victim of low self-esteem. A common psychological disorder among many, low self-esteem, as experts opine, is an umbrella term, which if not treated can lead to a number of fatal psychological disorders.
Defining low self-esteem, Dr.Deepali Kapoor, counseling psychologist in Apollo Hospital says, “It is basically what one feels about one-self. Though in my knowledge there is no psychological definition to it, it is considered as a disorder. Low self-esteem is about looking down on one-self, and not respecting one’s feelings.”
Experts also opine that one of the negative side-effects of low self-esteem is that its victim often suffer high stress illnesses, such as ulcers, colitis, high blood pressure, heart disease and personality disorders.Though,there can be many reasons for somebody to look down on himself, many argue that depression is a pre-requisite for low self-esteem.
“Depression is not a pre-requisite for low self-esteem, but it can be a symptom,” says Dr.Deepali.Elaborating on the issue, Dr.Aruna Broota, professor of psychology, Delhi University is of the opinion that other than depression there can be a number of factors that can lead to low self-esteem. “The persons’ relationship with his family is very important in this regard. Most people suffer from low self-esteem from their teenage years due various reasons which also includes parental bullying,” she says.
So, how does one get know that he has low self-esteem? Elaborates Dr.Broota.”The time a person comes to know that he has low self-esteem, half the work is done.” Doctors say people suffering from low self-esteem are usually submissive on the outer side. They hesitate to speak in groups, and are usually anxious people.
Elaborates Dr.Broota,”people suffering from low self-esteem are aggressive and cynical. Some also have habits such as tapping their feet while working and biting their lips.” So, how do we battle low self-esteem? Are there any remedies through which one can overcome this psychological disorder? We asked a few psychologists what they think is the best cure for low self-esteem.
Says Dr.Deepali,”First one should stand up for oneself. He should express himself if he doesn’t like some thing. By doing so, he will be able to make matters clear and will eventually start feeling good about himself and life.”
However, Dr Broota stressed on methods that can help the person alter his thoughts. “There are quite a few ways with which one can over come feelings of low self-esteem. Indian remedies include having food after regular intervals, yoga, jogging, as it is a car die-vascular exercise that generates endorphins that makes a person happy. Other than this we use cognition behavior therapy to cure people suffering from low self-esteem,” she says. Many also stressed on family intervention as one of the most important tool to fight low self-esteem. The next time you think “I am no good, and life is not worth living”, think again. It can be the first step towards developing low self-esteem, the best cure for which is nothing, but to love oneself.
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