Low self-esteem affects about 85% of adults and teens around the world. Having low self-esteem can make you feel sad, angry, and depressed. It can also reduce your quality of life and increase your risk for mental health problems.

If you have low self-esteem, there are several ways to boost it naturally. Here’s more about the importance of self-esteem boosters and how they can improve your mental health.

What Is a Self-Esteem Booster?

A self-esteem booster is a behavior or mindset that can make you feel happier and more comfortable about yourself.

Self-esteem is highly personal. It can be affected by many factors, such as your age and culture. The right self-esteem boosters can help you stay happy and protect your mental health.

Why Is It Important?

Low self-esteem can have a major negative impact on your life and well-being. For instance, it can reduce your school or work performance. It can cause relationship problems. It can also lead to mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.

Self-esteem boosters can teach you how to accept yourself for who you are. They can help you come to respect and believe in yourself. They can help you understand that you are important.

Benefits of self-esteem boosters include:

  • Being more confident
  • Having the ability to learn from your mistakes
  • Being optimistic
  • Being able to solve problems
  • Knowing how to set boundaries and say no
  • Being aware of your personal strengths
  • Knowing who you can trust
  • Being more independent
  • Knowing how to take good care of yourself

5 Ways to Boost Your Self-Esteem

There are many effective ways to boost your self-esteem. Here are steps you can take.

1. Be More Active

Exercise is a natural way to reduce stress and anxiety. It can also lift your mood and confidence. Studies show that exercise has a positive effect on self-esteem.

Start exercising regularly, even if it’s for a few minutes a day. Any exercise is better than none. Work your way up to at least 30 minutes daily to reap the mental health benefits.

2. Develop a New Skill

Learning a new skill can make you feel more confident about yourself. It can also increase your sense of self-worth and make you feel more important.

Spend time learning a new skill. For example, learn a new language or how to cook a new gourmet meal.

3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Each person has their own unique strengths. There may always be someone who is better at something than you. However, that does not mean you are not worthy or good enough.

Stop comparing yourself to other people. Accept yourself for who you are. Focus on your own strengths and on the special traits that set you apart from others.

4. Let Go of Toxic People

Toxic and negative people can drain your energy. They can lower your self-esteem and make you feel less important.

Stay away from people who point out your flaws and make fun of you. Instead, surround yourself with people who have healthy interests and values. Spending time with these people can make you feel more valued and appreciated.

5. Set Realistic Goals

Many people make the mistake of setting large goals that are not realistic. This can hurt a person’s self-esteem, especially when they cannot meet their goals.

Focus on setting only small, realistic goals. For example, if you want to lose extra weight, aim to lose three pounds during the first month instead of 10. You will feel more confident if you can actually meet your goals.

Consider working with a therapist if you still need support for mental health. A therapist can work with you to increase your self-esteem.

If you are dealing with low self-esteem, there are resources available  to you.  For more information about the resources available through Maryland Medicaid, please feel free to contact our Customer Service team today at 1-888-524-1999.