Project description:
Self-esteem begins with saying Hello in the mirror.
We know self-esteem to be the psychological term that refers to their self-worth – overall sense of personal value. Self-esteem is also a measure of self-confidence and how much one likes oneself. A teen’s self-esteem will face many challenges during traumatic or big life changes.
Self-image can be swayed by a teen’s body image, especially now that puberty has taken hold and their body is undergoing rapid development.
Their perception of their weight can chip away at self-esteem, as can acne. Body image also plays a role in when a teen may choose to explore their sexuality, which can also impact self-esteem.
Low self-esteem in a teen may lead to undesirable risks and life choices, including:
Alcohol and drug abuse
Depression
Eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia
Haphazard use of contraceptives
Joining a gang
Poor grades
We work to Improve Self-Esteem in Teens
We help teens have healthier self-esteem by helping them know that they deserve and are worthy of good care and respect. Learning to appreciate and celebrate their own strengths and abilities, without degrading and putting themselves down when a mistake is made.
Body image and self-esteem directly influence each other—and their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Body image is both mental and emotional. When they don’t like their body (or parts of it), it’s hard to feel good about their whole self. A healthy body image is having a better outlook on how they look vs. not liking themselves.
- Accepting and liking most, if not all, parts of their own body without the need to change.
- Recognizing individual qualities and strengths, plus the inner and outer beauty that makes them feel good about themselves.
Educating and Empowering each child or teen to have positive self-esteem is for them to know ‘I Matter’ and I Am Good Enough even through challenging circumstances or situations.