Self Esteem and Self Image...help?? :(?

Question:

I have probably the worst self esteem Ive ever had. And I normally wouldnt go on here to get an answer about this particular subject, but I just feel sort of lost on it. I have NO idea how to positively effect my self esteem. It is really bad, and is cauing a multitude of other issues, including distorted body image. I am getting so frustrated! :( I have a very hard time making friends because of how bad my self esteem is. Social situations are primarily just avoided altogether. Is there any literature I could read to get me started? Or any programs or audio you recommend? Whate are some things you have tried to help yourself? Ive tried positive reinforcement and self dialogue, and my husband is very supportive, but I feel like I need something more. I dont know :( Please give me any advice you have. Its a lonely world out there when you can't get to know anyone and you don't even like yourself...thanks. <3

Answers:
Think about this please: all self esteem and self image problems are a DIRECT RESULT of a comparison based society. The only reason you feel badly about yourself is because you are comparing yourself to other people.

Think hard on this one: You will NEVER, and I mean NEVER, feel any better until you STOP comparing yourself to others. Until you free yourself from that, you will never mature emotionally.

Once you do stop, and BE YOURSELF, regardless if people LIKE you or NOT, you will be free and it will feel great.

Please get some mental health counselling. You may be depressed. Is this a recent event (you are married, so you were social at one time) that you can link to something that happened in your life? One of the best solutions I have found is volunteering at an animal rescue.

Maybe try writing down a list of all the good things you feel about yourself. Solicit friends for help. Talking to a councellor would help as well. Feel free to email me anytime:

weblifecoach@hotmail.com

http://www.onlinelifecoach.org

There is a form of "immersion therapy" that is very effective. Basically what you do is take a trip to a mall or grocery store. As you walk around make eye contact with as many people as you can and just smile. You will be surprised how many people will smile back and some will say hello and perhaps strike up a conversation. Keep doing this as much as possible and eventually you will "retrain" your brain to realize that your brain is "fooling" you right now. If you shut yourself off the situation will just get worse.

See the self esteem websites, and read page 2, at http://www.ezy-build.net.nz/~shaneris...

Self Esteem and Self Image...help?? :(?

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