From Ascend Health

Self-esteem has to do with a person’s opinion of themselves. It’s connected to their sense of identity, belonging in the world, and self-confidence. Some of the beliefs associated with self-esteem include feelings of competency and worth, as well as various emotional states, like shame, pride, triumph, and despair.

For teens, self-esteem is especially important, as low self-esteem can be tied to anxiety, depression, poor performance in school, and trouble in relationships. However, it’s possible to boost self-esteem in teens!

If your teen is displaying some of the following signs, it’s possible that their self-esteem is suffering:

• Being bullied at school
• Have few friends or close relationships with others
• Very rarely participate in social activities outside of school hours
• Expressing feelings of worthlessness or inferiority
• Feeling ashamed about something they have done wrong
• Showing emotional indifference
• Negative self-talk

Self-esteem is not something that you simply have or don’t have. People fall on a spectrum of self-esteem that may change from day to day. Many factors can influence self-esteem throughout a person’s lifetime, like their support system, success in school or work, and even physical changes in their looks.

The best way to improve self-esteem in teens is by allowing them to voice their opinions and feelings in a supportive environment. Encourage your teen to talk positively about themselves, asking open-ended questions and fostering a sense of respect and support between you – rather than treating them as subordinates.

Self-awareness is also a key part of self-esteem. Being aware of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as your values, beliefs, and principles, can help you set realistic goals and prevent negativity due to feelings of inadequacy.

Month

• International Boost Self-Esteem
• African American History
• Career and Technical Education
• National Children's Dental health
• Teen Dating Violence Awareness and prevention

Week

• 5-9: National School Counseling
• 11-17: Random Acts of Kindness
• 26-1st: National Eating Disorders Awareness

Day

• 1- National Freedom Day
• 2- Read Across America Day/ Dr. Seuss Day
• 13- Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday
• 14- Ash Wednesday
• 14- International Safer Internet Day
• 17- Random Acts of Kindness Day
• 22- World Thinking Day

Random Acts of Kindness Day is observed on February 17th each year. It provides an opportunity for people worldwide to come together and make the world a better place through their thoughtful actions.

IMAGINE A WORLD WHERE YOU CAN SUCCEED BY BEING NICE. WHERE WE ALL PAY IT FORWARD. WHERE PEOPLE LOOK OUT FOR EACH OTHER. IT ALL STARTS WITH AN ACT.

My mission is to provide and assist families in finding mental health and community resources in our area. I work closely with our guidance counselors and administrators to raise mental health awareness within our schools, provide mental health support to the entire Makos family, and work to remove the stigma that surrounds mental health within our schools. I am excited to share information and resources to ensure our students have the support necessary to be successful.

OBMHS

23908 Canal Rd. Orange Beach, AL 36561

lrogula@orangebeachboe.org

251-201-9975

Mental Health Services - Orange Beach City Schools