Self-Esteem

Self-esteem is:

• How we see ourselves
• How we feel about ourselves
• How we value ourselves
• How we feel others value us

Feeling good about yourself

• Recognize and appreciate strengths and abilities in yourself
• Practise positive self talk
• Care for yourself - spend time with people who make you feel good, do things that make you feel worthwhile, be realistic about what you can do, give and accept support, and focus on healthy lifestyle choices (being active, healthy eating).
• Cope with life's "ups and downs" by making healthy choices: keeping physically active, eating and sleeping well,talking about your feelings, and if you choose to consume alcohol drink in moderation by following the Low Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines

Where to get help

If you have low self-esteem, turn to someone you know and trust to get help:

• Family physician
• Friends
• School counsellor
• School social worker or child and youth counsellor
• Family members
• Clergy
• Kids Help Phone (external link): 1-800-668-6868

You can also turn to the following resources:

• TeensHealth: How Can I Improve My Self-Esteem?
• Helping Children Feel Good About Themselves (PDF file)