24 Ways to Build Self-Esteem in Teens

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Does your teen struggle with self-esteem? It’s very common because of how much their bodies, brains, emotions, and social groups are changing.

Here are 12 signs of low self-esteem:

  1. They look down or away when talking to others

  2. They make negative "I" statements like "I could never do what she did"

  3. They talk negatively about their life, their bodies, their abilities

  4. They compare themselves to others

  5. They brag excessively

  6. They apologize for everything or refuse to apologize

  7. They are alone all the time

  8. They are unwilling to try new things because they are afraid they will fail

  9. They blame others for their mistakes

  10. They are too physically affectionate for their age

  11. They seek attention in negative ways (risk taking, doing drugs, speaking too loudly, monopolizing conversations)

  12. They don't share their opinions

If your teen matches any of these, here are 24 things you can do to help:

  1. Point out areas you see improvement

  2. Listen deeply and actively to their thoughts and feelings

  3. Spend time with them

  4. Attend their events

  5. Teach them to set and accomplish goals

  6. Encourage them to try new things

  7. Set boundaries and maintain them

  8. Encourage them to make decisions and honor them

  9. Be supportive of their relationships

  10. Be careful with criticism

  11. Model confidence

  12. Teach them positive self-talk

  13. Help them be assertive

  14. Teach them how to protect themselves

  15. Show forgiveness and teach them how to accept and offer it

  16. Give them opportunities to practice and learn essential skills

  17. Give less advice and ask for more

  18. Encourage a growth mindset

  19. Monitor and teach healthy social media use

  20. Provide opportunities to volunteer

  21. Ask for help, even if you can do it yourself

  22. Create opportunities for them to spend time with friends

  23. Connect them with other adults so they have more examples

  24. Seek professional help if needed

If you are concerned about your teen’s self-esteem, that last one is so important. Low self-esteem can lead to so many of the problems teenagers struggle with. Let me know if I can help!

Beau Sorensen