Low self-esteem and feelings of shame

The foundations of self-esteem are formed in early childhood and adolescence. The psychological causes of low self-esteem are often related to what we have experienced in life: if the people closest to us (parents, siblings, teachers) have criticized us, put us down, or shown us love only under certain conditions, the child will feel that the way they are is not enough. Deep humiliation or rejection – whether it is bullying by peers, abuse, or even repeated failures – leave wounds in the soul from which shame sprouts. Shame differs from guilt in that it is not about regretting a specific act, but about the belief “I am bad”. It is this pervasive shame that is often at the core of low self-esteem.

Biological factors can also play a role, such as innate sensitivity or a tendency to be anxious. Some people are naturally more sensitive to negative stimuli and have a harder time with criticism or rejection, which can increase the likelihood of developing low self-esteem. Furthermore, conditions such as depression or chronic anxiety can undermine self-confidence even in people who previously had no self-doubt - the brain, under the influence of these conditions, literally does not allow them to see their positive sides.

Social influences throughout life either strengthen or weaken the original self-esteem. For example, a toxic relationship in which your partner constantly criticizes you can dramatically reduce self-esteem even in adulthood. Discrimination, failure in the workplace, financial difficulties or other life blows also contribute to the feeling that "I am not good enough". A person compares himself to others and always comes out worse, which feeds more and more shame.

The spiritual dimension cannot be ignored either: a feeling of emptiness in life, a loss of meaning, or perhaps extremely strict religious beliefs can lead to chronic shame and self-rejection. If a person feels “bad” in some existential sense, their soul suffers from constant shame that is difficult to shake off without deeper inner work.

Low self-esteem and shame manifest themselves in different ways. Some people are quiet, withdrawn, avoid challenges, and prefer to remain “invisible.” Others, on the other hand, switch gears and try to please everyone just to get a little recognition – but often allow themselves to be taken advantage of. A person with low self-esteem may remain in unhappy relationships or jobs because they do not believe they deserve anything better. They are often accompanied by anxiety, depression, or a feeling of loneliness because they feel that no one can understand them. In extreme cases, destructive ways to drive away the pain can also appear – from isolation, to addiction, to self-harm.

How NEO Center helps

Regaining healthy self-esteem is possible at any age. At NEO Center, we offer kind support and guidance on this journey:

Individual therapy

A therapist will help you gradually uncover and process the roots of your shame. You will safely look into the past at moments when you were hurt or when feelings of inferiority took root in you. Through conversations and therapeutic techniques, old wounds are healed - you name them, experience the emotions that belong to them, and begin to change your view of yourself. An important part of therapy is practicing a more positive perception of yourself: you learn to look for your strengths, recognize your successes (even small ones), and build compassion for yourself instead of self-criticism.

Safe environment

Many people with low self-esteem are afraid to confide in us because they are ashamed and afraid of being judged. With us, you will quickly find that you are not alone - our therapists respond with acceptance and understanding, not criticism. Each meeting takes place in an atmosphere of trust. Gradually, you will gain the courage to talk openly about your feelings and learn to communicate your needs in a healthy way without unnecessary guilt.

Working with the body and emotions

We often literally carry feelings of shame in our bodies – they manifest themselves in hunched posture, chest tightening, a quiet voice or blushing. Therefore, in therapy, we also pay attention to the physical component of self-confidence. Using breathing exercises, working with body posture or perhaps appropriate movement, we will help you step by step to release tension and give your body a new experience of self-confidence (for example, by practicing a firm stance and eye contact). When your body starts to feel more confident, it sends a signal back to your psyche – that you are stronger and more valuable than your inner critic has told you.

Residential therapy (intensive support)

Do you have low self-esteem? Intensive residential treatment at the NEO Center is the way for you too. You will find yourself in a kind environment where you can fully focus on your own recovery, surrounded by a support team. The stay often includes group meetings with people with similar suffering - you will find that someone else understands your feelings, and you can give each other courage. Thanks to a combination of individual and group therapy, body-focused therapies and relaxation activities, you will receive a strong healing impulse in a relatively short time. This will help you start making changes, which you can then continue to work on in outpatient care.

Discover your value

Low self-esteem doesn't have to be a permanent part of your life. With a sensitive approach, understanding and patience, old shame can gradually dissolve. At NEO Center, we believe that every person has their own value - we will help you rediscover it so that you can live more freely, without the burden of constant self-doubt.