Low self-esteem can manifest in various ways, including negative self-talk, focusing on flaws, avoiding challenges, and struggling to accept compliments. It can also lead to social withdrawal, people-pleasing tendencies, and difficulty asserting oneself.

Here's a more detailed look at the signs:

Negative Self-Perception and Self-Talk:

· Critical self-evaluation:

People with low self-esteem often harshly judge themselves, focusing on perceived flaws and mistakes.

· Negative self-talk:

They might engage in negative internal conversations, putting themselves down and questioning their worth.

· Downplaying achievements:

They might attribute their successes to luck or external factors, rather than their own abilities.

· Unrealistic expectations:

They may set impossibly high standards for themselves and feel inadequate when they fall short.

· Feelings of inferiority:

They might believe others are superior to them and constantly compare themselves negatively to others.

Emotional and Behavioural Patterns:

· Avoidance:

They might avoid social situations, new challenges, or opportunities for fear of failure or judgment.

· People-pleasing:

They may prioritize the needs and opinions of others to gain approval and avoid conflict.

· Difficulty accepting compliments:

They might struggle to believe positive feedback or dismiss it as insincere.

· Sensitivity to criticism:

They may react strongly to criticism, even if constructive, and take it as further evidence of their inadequacy.

· Social withdrawal:

They might isolate themselves from others to avoid potential negative experiences or judgments.

· Lack of assertiveness:

They may struggle to express their opinions or needs, fearing rejection or conflict.

· Anxiety and depression:

Low self-esteem can contribute to feelings of anxiety, hopelessness, and sadness.

Physical Signs:

· Poor posture:

Low self-esteem can manifest physically in slumped shoulders and a lack of eye contact.

· Excessive grooming:

In some cases, individuals with low self-esteem might engage in excessive grooming or self-care as a way to compensate for negative self-perceptions.

If you suspect you might be suffering from low self-esteem, seeking a professional evaluation is a crucial first step. At ExpatTherapyHub.com, we connect individuals with experienced therapists who specialise in low self-esteem treatment such as Kirsty Mc Carroll. Our network of professionals offer the guidance and support to navigate the complexities of low mood, especially for those living abroad.

If you're living in Thailand, Vietnam, or anywhere in Southeast Asia and concerned about time differences, our user-friendly booking system automatically adjusts to your local time zone. This ensures that your appointment is scheduled exactly when you want it — even if you're in Bangkok and your therapist is in Madrid.