Low self-esteem means not holding yourself in high regard.

If you have low self-esteem, you might feel shy or anxious around other people, think of yourself as incapable or criticize yourself harshly.

Some people with low self-esteem know that they judge themselves too harshly, whereas others hold onto their negative beliefs so strongly that they can feel like facts.

Low self-esteem affects many people, and may make you more vulnerable to struggling with other mental health problems. Fortunately, there are helpful psychological approaches for improving your self-esteem.