I was wondering if anyone else who has high anxiety also has low self esteem? I am a very anxious person and with that comes a lot of anxious thoughts. I believe this has greatly affected what I think about myself. I have always been unsure of myself, and at times I hate myself.

Is there a connection?

Im unsure which started to manifest itself first.. but i definitley have problems with low self-asteem and self hatred.. its like a big circle with my social anxiety... Im anxious about the way i look and what my be construed as silly things (like the way i walk and things).. an in other peoples company i always think they think im a bit too quiet and strange etc.. which ultimately leads to feeling worse about myself an being more and more depressed.. its a vicious circle to try and break out of, but i think there is a connection and you're not alone in how you feel..

Of course they are connected. I have worked on my mental/emotional health for the last 20 years and I still cannot believe all the work that I have done on it and how much better off I am now. Anxiety can be overcome and it is related to low self-worth, boundaries, living in the moment (not the past or future) being aware of everything right now, personal empowerment, having control over your life, dealing with all of your unresolved feelings, meeting your own needs, etc. After you deal with all of these things then it is just plain habit that you have to overcome. It is a wonderful, powerful, knowledge enhancing journey and the sooner you get started the better.

It's really funny, though, it seems when people get really anxious it is almost as though they are too anxious to deal with the real issues???? Since I have learned so much about anxiety you would think that I would be posting here a lot but I do not because no one here it seems wants to talk about the real issues which are causing their anxiety?????

I've just started to try an come to terms with a few of mine.. theres strict posting rules in here it seems so im not sure if i can talk about other illness hmmm.. but id really like to talk to someone experienced with mental health about my real issues but im a bit nervous about posting it in a public forum.. an i know i could never talk about them in person :embarrased:... but if you decided you'd like to hear them an maybe give me a guideline on where to start with it all i'd be happy to talk to you hmmm.. sorry

Hi Kiada, I am not sure where you should start either? How I got better was to start with where I was at - with which problem at the very moment was causing me distress. By the time you answer this I might be signed off because I have to go now but I will be back on later today.

I posed the connection of anxiety and self esteem as a question because I didn't know what people were thinking out there. I wanted to get some open responses. I, too, have difficulty in forums becuase I feel people don't see themselves for who they really are. Of course I don't know that my way of looking at things is "right", but I has put me on the path of happieness : )

I actually feel there is another thing connected to anxiety and self esteem. That is sensitivity. Acknowledging my sensitivy has given a new "edge" with dealing with my anxiety. I realize some things that make me worry and panic aren't things the majority of people would panic about. I remind myself that I feel things more intensly so I focus on calming myself down. Sometimes it just takes a few good thoughts, sometimes it means getting out of the situation.

Realizing my sensitivy has also helped in building my self esteem. I look at the good things that come from my sensitivy, including being a good supporter when my friends are in need and seeing events/problems in unique ways. A troubling part is that my sensivity is going to make me more self conscience, regardless if there is good reason. So remind myself that I can relax becasue the bottom line is that I am a good caring person. Not perfect, but I'm trying to be ok with that ; )

I am working very hard at being a stronger, confident individual right now. Kiada, I greatly encourage you to get talking! It is important to find people who can offer you insight on your life journey. In addition to that, you understand yourself and your issues better just listening to yourself talk!

Hi ShineOn, it sounds like you are on your way to combating this anxiety. Self-understanding is the key followed with problem solving what you discover. Yes, this forum is great for thinking out loud which is so important in untangling these things. Keep up the good work and good luck!