Understanding Anxiety, Low Mood & Self-Esteem

Everyone has ups and downs, but sometimes these feelings can hang around or feel really intense. You're not alone, lots of young people struggle with anxiety, low mood, or low self-esteem. The good news? These feelings can be understood and managed.

🌩 What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is when you feel worried, nervous, or scared, even when there’s no obvious danger. It’s a normal response to stress (like exams or social situations), but it can become a problem if it stops you from doing things you enjoy.

Signs of anxiety:

• Racing heart or shortness of breath
• Overthinking or expecting the worst
• Avoiding places or situations
• Trouble sleeping or concentrating

What helps:

• Deep breathing or grounding exercises
• Talking to someone you trust
• Writing down your thoughts
• Gradually facing fears in small steps

🌧 What Is Low Mood?

Low mood means feeling sad, tired, or hopeless. Everyone feels down sometimes, but if it lasts more than a couple of weeks, it might be time to get support.

Signs of low mood:

• Feeling empty or numb
• Losing interest in things you usually enjoy
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Feeling like you’re not good enough

What helps:

• Getting outside for fresh air or a walk
• Keeping a daily routine
• Connecting with friends or family
• Speaking to a counsellor or mental health support

🌱 What Is Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem is how you see and value yourself. If you have low self-esteem, you might be really hard on yourself or think you’re not “good enough.”

Signs of low self-esteem:

• Negative self-talk (“I’m useless”)
• Comparing yourself to others
• Struggling to accept compliments

What helps:

• Noticing your strengths, everyone has them!
• Setting small, achievable goals
• Limiting time on social media
• Practising kind self-talk (talk to yourself like you would to a friend)

💬 Remember:

It’s okay to not be okay. Talking to someone, a parent, teacher, school counsellor, GP, or a helpline can really help. You don’t have to go through it alone.

You matter. You’re not broken. Things can and do get better. 💙