Low self-esteem describes a lack of confidence in one’s ability to perform and a low sense of self-worth as an individual. Low self-esteem, a cause and symptom of depression, anxiety, and anger problems, has become the modern pariah.

Self-esteem does indeed affect every action of an individual, and it may be worth everyone’s while to figure out if she/he suffers from low self-esteem. Child experts say low self-esteem can also be caused by well-meaning but misdirected parents who focus on perfectionism or their child’s being a top performer at anything.

Esteem and respect are linked to status in the social hierarchy, and putting someone down can have tangible and even life-threatening consequences.

Self-esteem was lowest in patients with major depressive disorders, eating disorders, and substance abuse.

A negative self-image (or low self-esteem) can lead to problems such as insomnia, a bad temper, chronic shyness, alcohol, and substance abuse, eating disorders, dysfunctional relationships, severe depression, and even thoughts of suicide. It can affect all aspects of our lives: it can contribute to our fear of rejection (which causes us to avoid closeness), make us respond to loved ones with anger and defensiveness, keep us from communicating our true feelings, keep us isolated and unable to be vulnerable, and affect our physical health by causing digestive disorders or high blood pressure.