How we regard our own self-worth is important. The the opinion we have of ourselves, whether positive or negative, describes our self-esteem and sense of identity.
Self-Esteem Resource Packs
Over to You
A valuable PSHE resource pack covering self-esteem, motivation, confidence and self-awareness — a comprehensive trainer manual containing workshops and worksheets.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 190
Price: £12.99 Now: £6.49
PSHE Activities
A set of activities and topics for discussion including alcohol & drugs, gender issues, bullying, depression and self-esteem.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Last revised: 2021
- Pages: 25
Price: £8.99 Now: £4.49
What Would You Do?
A series of plays involving a moral dilemma followed by activities to encourage discussion and further investigation.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 46
Price: £8.99 Now: £4.49
What is Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem is the term that describes how a person feels about themselves. It can also be called self-worth or self-respect and affects our personal sense of value.
There are a number of factors that can affect our self-esteem including:
- Health
- Genetics
- Family life
- Personality
- Life experiences
- Age
- Inner thoughts
- Personal circumstances
Types of Self-Esteem
A person can either have high or low self-esteem.
High Self-Esteem
Having a high level of self-esteem means you can recognise your good qualities.
Low Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem is when you feel negatively about yourself.
How to Improve Self-Esteem
Self-esteem is not static — it can change according to your life experiences, changes in your health as you get older, and other changes in your personal life. You can also take steps to improve your self-esteem as follows:
- Stop comparing yourself with other people — whether those you believe are ‘better’ than you in some aspect or those you feel are ‘inferior’ in some way. The only person you are responsible for is yourself!
- Each time you talk negatively about yourself, challenge these beliefs and negative comments. Ask yourself: “Is this really true?” “Am I being too hard on myself?” “Would I say this to someone else?”
- Keep busy. Occupy your time with a hobby, take up a new sport or pastime, redecorate the house, do some gardening. When we are busy we have little time to dwell on negative things.
- Take care of your physical health. When we feel physically low, we feel mentally tired. Make sure you eat a healthy diet and take plenty of exercise. Get a good night’s sleep and cut back on your alcohol intake. Do not resort to drink or drugs as a pick-me-up.
- Set yourself some challenging, but manageable goals. You will get a real boost if you manage to reach your target, whatever it may be.

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