Many people who have either abused drugs or have become an addict have battled at one time or another a low self esteem. But what exactly is self esteem. Some think that self-esteem merely means feeling good or having positive thoughts about oneself. Yes, that is part of it, but not all of it. Self Esteem is the experience of being capable of meeting life’s challenges and being worthy of happiness.
The worthiness component of self-esteem is tied to whether or not a person lives up to certain basic human values, such as finding meanings that foster human growth and making commitments to them in a way that leads to a sense of integrity and satisfaction. The competence is having the conviction that one is generally capable of producing desired results, and making appropriate choices and decisions.
A close relationship has been documented between low self-esteem and such problems as violence, alcoholism, drug abuse, eating disorders, school dropouts, teenage pregnancy, suicide, and low academic achievement. When a person with a low or defensive self-esteem lacks the confidence in themselves, they can often turn to drugs or alcohol to get an artificial sense of confidence. They may even frequently blame others for their shortcomings and even abuse or addiction to drugs or alcohol rather than take responsibility for their actions. This is why educating and building self-esteem is a critical component of any program aimed at self-improvement or any rehabilitation program.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
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I have pretty damaged self esteem, but thank God I was never into drugs or alcohol. I used to say it was a good thing I didn't drink much because I could see it being a real problem. Maybe that's why I never did. I never felt worthy of anything good in my life.
ReplyDeleteI never considered that self esteem is the experience of being capable of meeting life’s challenges. It does make sense though. I know I have self esteem problems and I do try to work on it. I think it's better than it has been. I know it's better than it was 20 years ago. I just need to remember that it's a process and takes time to heal.
ReplyDeleteThe relationship list between low self-esteem and problems isn't a pretty one. From the sounds of it, building good self-esteem should be part of the curriculum in grade, middle and high school. It could possibly turn someone away from potential problems in their lives.
ReplyDeleteI wonder which came first, the low self esteem followed by problems or problems, followed by low self esteem?
ReplyDeleteThe blame game is commonly used by addicts and alcoholics. It's never their fault. They always do it because of something that someone else said or did. It's sad that no one can take responsibility for their actions.
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