Why Having Self-Esteem Goals Kept Me Active in Therapy

Self-esteem took up a lot of space in my therapist appointments.

When I wasn't discussing dark, intrusive thoughts, I opened up about self-critical views I held.

Most of the thoughts circulating in my mind indicated I had extremely low-esteem, a major symptom of Major Depressive Disorder. Too often, I ripped myself apart, internalizing feedback, ruminating on remarks. I was far too wound up in feeling negatively about myself to progress deeper into my recovery. 

Fortunately, my treatment teams encouraged me to maintain self-esteem goals to help me focus on improving my self-image. After rreflectingd on my progress as an adolescent in an RTC for teens with behavioral health problems, I learned a shocking truth:

Working towards good self-esteem kept me active and motivated..  Both in and away from therapy. 

Boredom was the most difficult challenge I faced during my period of prolonged institutionalization as a teen. 

Boredom was common. because I was depressed and without energy. So there were plenty of times I couldn't focus on group activities, ward outings, or discussions.

Good self-esteem stops boredom in its tracks.

Good self-esteem stimulates.

Good self-esteem uplifts.

Good self-esteem even reframes your thinking.  Naturally, you're more likely to feel healthy when  you can accept likable qualities about yourself. 

I began hearing about some self-esteem goals that my therapist had prepared. Typically, therapy clients undergo routine re-evaluations where a team of experts will reassess their goals and treatment plan.

One goal I was to focus on was accepting a compliment with a smile or thank-you. The entire point of this exercise was to help me restore some kind of positive self-image in myself.

Of course, these were such small steps.  But my trauma was great. Simply being human would transform me and give me reason to feel likeable and feel less depressed. 

With good-self-esteem, I could change my life. I'd spend less time dwelling on my past.

The plan was a huge hit that changed how I spent my time. Instead of writing vengeful diary entries, I read novels and studied writing. Instead of doing nothing in the day room, I advanced in a work-im-progress and completed a manuscript during my time in treatment.

Focusing on activities that improved my self-esteem caused me to feel busy, studious, and committed to self-improvement. Busy people are the ones who succeed at wellness. They channel positive vibes into action despite recovering or living with a mental illness.

A close examination of my early treatment progress reveals the effects that good self-esteem has on living well and avoiding relapse.