Why self esteem is important

Kids can learn to improve how they see and value themselves. Being a supportive, realistic — but not overprotective — parent or caregiver is key. Asking teachers to be supportive but realistic is important, too. Friendship is a big part of building positive self-esteem, too. Just having one friend who accepts you for who you are can make all the difference. Read about how to help grade-schoolers and middle-schoolers connect with other kids.

Help your child discover strengths to build on. A competence anchor helps kids trigger a memory of something they did well in the past. That allows them to tap into joy and confidence and take that feeling with them as they tackle challenges. More on: Confidence and self-esteem. He picks himself up when he falls, and he tries again. Share The importance of positive self-esteem for kids. Podcast Wunder community app. Main menu Our work Blog Surveys and research.

Join our team Privacy policy Terms of use Fundraising disclosure Sitemap. At a Glance Kids with positive self-esteem feel good about themselves. You can help your child build positive self-esteem. Feel respected Are resilient and feel proud even when they make a mistake Have a sense of control over activities and events in their life Act independently Take responsibility for their actions Are comfortable and secure in forming relationships Have the courage to make good decisions, even in the face of peer pressure.

Psychological studies indicate that low self-esteem in childhood and early adulthood can be a predisposition to addiction in later life. Many addicts use substances such as drugs or alcohol to help ease the negative feelings they have about themselves.

But over time this method of escapism develops into an addiction and of course this has detrimental effects on their already depleted self-esteem levels.

Depression and anxiety. Low self-esteem tends to work in a vicious cycle with other mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Someone who already lives with a mental illness may find that low self-esteem develops due to the social stigma surrounding mental illness.

Stigma can perpetuate the feeling that they have somehow failed. Building Self-Esteem Building self-esteem is crucial. Maintaining a healthy, realistic view of yourself isn't about blowing your own horn.

It's about learning to like and respect yourself — faults and all. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health.

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This content does not have an Arabic version. See more conditions. Healthy Lifestyle Adult health. Products and services. Self-esteem check: Too low or just right? By Mayo Clinic Staff.