Self Esteem

Self-esteem is simply the way we feel about ourselves
Self-esteem is low if we feel shamefully that we are less than a whole person because of our illness (accepting stigma)
We need to understand that we are just as worthwhile as anyone else
Self-esteem can be raised or improved by doing good works, volunteering, achieving, and helping others
There is a large component of positive self-esteem that comes from just being alive—just being the wonderful, unique, special person of great value that we are!

Two of the wellness tools having potentially great positive influence on self-esteem are:
- Spirituality
- Affirmations

Love self, Love others

Our goal may be to:

For this to happen, we must first feel satisfied and at peace with ourselves, having strong self-esteem.

If we love ourselves:

Poor self-esteem leads to bad choices and bad decisions:

Thoughts determine feelings—What are your thoughts?

Can you improve your thoughts?

Take control of your mental health wellness—Be in charge!

Develop and apply your wellness tools—particularly affirmations and spirituality
Find and study self-help books
Reclaim and cultivate your sense of humor
Do things you enjoy
Do things for others
Do volunteer work
Utilize all forms of the support wellness tools
Consider the possible help of therapy or alternative therapy
Use and practice cognitive therapy
- Out with the negative thoughts
- In with the positive thoughts
Pretend you are your own best friend
Love and take care of yourself

Information above taken from Wellness Recovery Action Planning workbook distributed by the Oklahoma Mental Health Consumer Council