In this episode of Therapists in the Hot Seat, hosts Tom Coates and Tom Holland-Pearse delve into the pervasive issue of low self-esteem. They discuss its relevance in mental health, the cultural factors influencing self-perception, and the importance of self-compassion. The conversation transitions into practical techniques for managing anxiety and panic attacks, emphasizing the significance of understanding physiological responses and employing strategies to cope with uncomfortable emotions. The episode concludes with a broad overview of low self-esteem, laying the groundwork for future discussions on its impact in various contexts. In this conversation, Tom Holland-Pearse and Tom Coates delve into the complexities of low self-esteem, exploring its definitions, origins, and the profound impact it has on individuals' lives. They discuss how low self-esteem intertwines with other mental health issues like depression and social anxiety, and emphasize the importance of understanding these connections for effective therapy. The conversation also highlights the day-to-day manifestations of low self-esteem and offers strategies for managing it, ultimately aiming to provide listeners with insights and tools for personal growth and emotional well-being. In this episode, Tom Holland-Pearse and Tom Coates explore the themes of anxiety, self-esteem, and assertiveness in both personal and professional contexts. They discuss their experiences with podcast anxiety and imposter syndrome, emphasizing the importance of preparation and self-reflection. The conversation transitions into practical strategies for managing low self-esteem, including cognitive behavioral techniques and behavioral experiments. The hosts also delve into the significance of setting boundaries and assertiveness in relationships, concluding with a commitment to revisit these topics in future episodes.

Keywords: low self-esteem, mental health, anxiety, panic attacks, self-compassion, CBT, emotional regulation, social anxiety, personal development, therapy, low self-esteem, mental health, therapy, cognitive model, depression, social anxiety, core beliefs, self-worth, personal development, emotional well-being, podcast anxiety, imposter syndrome, self-esteem, behavioral experiments, therapy strategies, assertiveness, mental health, boundaries, CBT, relationship OCD