Do I Have Low Self-Esteem?
A harsh inner critic can feel so constant that it stops registering as anything unusual, it just feels like how you think. If you've ever wondered whether the way you talk to yourself is actually normal, or found yourself here after a moment of feeling not quite good enough, this is a gentle place to start.
Why this is worth paying attention to
Self-esteem shapes more than how you feel about yourself. It affects how you set boundaries, handle criticism, make decisions, and let yourself feel proud of what you've done. The good news is that self-esteem isn't fixed. However it's showing up for you right now, it's something that can shift with time and support.
Common patterns worth noticing
A harsher inner voice than you'd use with anyone elseQuick to criticise, slow to acknowledge what you got right.
Struggling to accept praise
Compliments get brushed off or explained away rather than simply received.
Comparing yourself to others often
And usually landing on the conclusion that you fall short.
Difficulty setting boundaries
Saying no feels uncomfortable, even when you need to.
Basing your worth on achievement
Feeling okay about yourself depends heavily on performing well or being seen a certain way.
Do I Have Low Self-Esteem? Our Quiz
Trudy Jacobsen
Trudy Jacobsen is a highly experienced counsellor with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and couples with her warm, grounded and outcome-driven approach. She is available for new clients for in-person appointments in Booval, Brisbane as well as online video appointments.
https://lifesupportscounselling.com.au/counsellors/trudy-jacobsen/
- Master of Social Work
- Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
- Member of the AASW
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Open 8am to 8pm weekdays and 9am to 5:30pm weekends
Not Sure What Your Results Mean?
Everyone's answer sits somewhere on a spectrum, and wherever you landed, it isn't a verdict on your worth. These patterns are usually learned over time, which also means they can be gently unlearned with the right support.
How Counselling Can Help
A counsellor can help you notice where these patterns come from, challenge the harsher parts of your inner voice, and build a steadier, kinder relationship with yourself. This isn't about forcing positivity, it's about learning to treat yourself with the same fairness you'd offer someone you cared about. Life Supports can match you with a counsellor who's a genuine fit for what you're working through.
If you’re interested in learning more about counselling or would like to organise a session, call 1300 735 030 or leave us an email via our contact page.
FAQs
It's usually shaped by a mix of things over time, like early experiences, past relationships, comparison culture, or years of a harsh inner voice going unchallenged. There's rarely one single cause, and understanding your own patterns is something a counsellor can help you explore at your own pace.
They're related but not identical. Confidence is often about specific skills or situations, like feeling capable at work or comfortable speaking up. Self-esteem runs deeper, it's about your overall sense of worth, regardless of performance or achievement.
Yes, it often shows up there first. It can make it harder to set boundaries, accept care or compliments, or believe you deserve to have your needs met. Working on self-esteem often has a flow-on effect on how connected and secure your relationships feel.
No, you don't need a referral to see a counsellor, you can book an appointment directly with our team.