Self-Esteem

Self-esteem refers to a person’s overall feelings about their own worth and value. It involves the beliefs and feelings they hold about themselves, including aspects such as confidence, self-respect, and a positive self-image.

Healthy self-esteem is essential for mental and emotional well-being, influencing how people perceive and interact with the world around them.

Building good self-esteem is important for feeling happy and dealing with life’s ups and downs.

Being made to feel different or focusing on a person’s challenges rather than strengths can negatively impact self-esteem. Research suggests that autistic children and young people are at increased risk of experiencing low self esteem.

Why Self-Esteem Matters:

Encouraging healthy self-esteem in autistic children and young people is crucial for their overall development and life satisfaction. Positive self-esteem acts as a protective factor, buffering against the challenges associated with navigating life. It contributes to resilience, emotional regulation, and the ability to form meaningful connections with others.

Key components of self-esteem include:

• Self-Worth: The sense of knowing you have value and deserve good things. It involves recognising and appreciating your abilities, qualities, skills and contributions.
• Self-Confidence: The belief in your capabilities and the ability to meet challenges or goals. Confidence allows individuals to tackle new tasks, navigate difficulties, and pursue personal growth.
• Self-Respect: Treating yourself with kindness, compassion, and consideration. It involves setting healthy boundaries, making choices that align with personal values, and maintaining a positive regard for one’s own well-being.
• Self-Image: It’s the mental image you have of yourself, including how you look and what you’re good at. A positive self-image helps you feel good about life.
• Self-Acceptance: Embracing both strengths and differences. Self-acceptance involves cultivating a non-judgmental attitude toward oneself.