Self-worth 

What Is It?

We often hear that positive self-esteem is good for our health and wellbeing, but what does that actually mean? At its core, self-esteem is our inner sense of worth: how much we believe we deserve happiness, respect, and connection. It influences how we handle stress, build relationships, and recover from life’s challenges.
 

Why It Matters

• A natural shield: High self-esteem can buffer against anxiety, depression, and stress — sometimes more powerfully than the challenges themselves.

• Stronger connections: In later life, people with higher self-esteem report better mental health, often because it reduces loneliness.

• The mind–body link: Self-esteem supports the brain’s ability to regulate emotions and make balanced decisions, helping you respond, not just react.

• The self-compassion factor: While self-esteem is valuable, self-compassion, treating yourself with kindness when things go wrong, can be an even steadier foundation, without the pitfalls of chasing approval or perfection.
   

Where It Comes From

Self-esteem develops through a mix of experiences, relationships, and inner beliefs. It can be shaped by:

• Early relationships and how safe, valued, and encouraged we felt as children.

• Achievements and challenges — and how they were recognised by others.

• Cultural, social, and family messages about worth, success, and identity.

• How we talk to ourselves, especially in moments of struggle or failure.

• It’s not fixed — it can grow, shift, and strengthen at any point in life.

 

Need Urgent Help Right Now?

If things feel urgent and it's out of hours, support is available 24/7:

• Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7) NHS

• Urgent Mental Health Helpline: Call 111 and press option 2

• Open Mental Health Somerset (24/7): 01823 276 892 ​

 

Want to Talk?

If self-doubt, harsh self-talk, or feeling ‘not good enough’ are holding you back, you don’t have to work through it alone. One of our friendly therapists can offer a confidential space — no judgement, no assumptions. Together, we can explore where these beliefs come from, strengthen your sense of worth, and develop tools that help you feel more confident in yourself and your choices. 
 

Therapy with us:

• £70 for individual therapy (trauma informed) 

• £80 trauma specialist therapy online and in-person

• £120 per session for couples therapy

• £30 per session with a student counsellor (ideal for clients with moderate mental health needs, life transitions, everyday challenges, or feeling stuck or lost). Student counsellors are in the final stages of training and work under close supervision.