A positive self-esteem is an essential tool to help someone function as a productive member of society. Our basic sense of worth determines how well we are able to deal with situations and how well we perform in the family, at school, at work and in life.

Having a healthy self-esteem means that we have a sense of self-worth, self-respect and the ability to find the good in yourself. On the contrary, a negative self image can lead to social anxiety, loneliness, self-criticism, shame and even anger. A person with low self-esteem often feels isolated.

Self-esteem issues are usually created in childhood when negative experiences and poor influences and reactions from caregivers stunt the development of a positive self esteem. Self-esteem can also be affected by abuse, or by being different. A person may be stigmatized for his or her social identity, race, social class, behaviors or appearance.

However, a person's self-esteem can also be challenged during adulthood when one experiences marital issues, financial problems, career glitches or legal challenges.

Therapy can help a person come to terms with self-esteem issues. A therapist will help identify the causes of self-esteem issues and help the individual to regain control over circumstances through goal-directed therapy.

It can help someone with low self-esteem to separate who they are from what they have, or how they look in order to overcome low self-esteem issues. Discovering one's worth is a great way to take control of situations and to learn to feel adequate.

If you are looking for a counsellor or psychologist who offers goal directed therapy to address your self-esteem issues, you may want to search the directory to find a professional whose approach will suit you best.
 

Family members are affected by substance use and other addictions. There is a tremendous amount both in the news and in public discourse about what family/friends can do for people affected by addictions. Sometimes it's cast as simply attending Al Anon for example.  There are many professionals who are trained in Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) who may be able to help you help yourself and the addict in compassionate and productive ways.

Note: The Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT Model) was developed by Drs. Robert J. Meyers and Jane Ellen Smith at the University of New Mexico. 

If you need a counsellor or psychologist to help you, as a friend or a family member, with addiction of another you may find someone here.