Low self-esteem is when someone lacks confidence about who they are and what they can do. They often feel incompetent, unloved, or inadequate. People who struggle with low self-esteem are consistently afraid about making mistakes or letting other people down.

What causes a person to have low self-esteem?

Some of the many causes of low self-esteem may include: Unhappy childhood where parents (or other significant people such as teachers) were extremely critical. Poor academic performance in school resulting in a lack of confidence. Ongoing stressful life event such as relationship breakdown or financial trouble.

What if you have low self-esteem?

Living with low self-esteem can harm your mental health and lead to problems such as depression and anxiety. You may also develop unhelpful habits, such as smoking and drinking too much, as a way of coping.

Why do people with ADHD have a low self-esteem?

Several studies find that as children with ADHD grow into adults, their self-esteem tends to drop over time because of mounting criticism and challenging life experiences.

Do girls with ADHD have low self-esteem?

As a result, many women with ADHD ping-pong between extreme perceptions of themselves — bad or good, dumb or smart, motivated or lazy. This reactive, extreme thinking leads to low self-esteem and should be replaced with inward thinking and a healthy dose of self-compassion.

Does ADHD cause low self-esteem?

Several studies find that as children with ADHD grow into adults, their self-esteem tends to drop over time because of mounting criticism and challenging life experiences. In severe cases, Chronis-Tuscano says, low self-esteem can make depression and suicide more likely.