Self Esteem and Relationships

Have you ever felt when you were in a relationship that you “were not good enough” for your partner or how am I “deserving” of my partner’s love? Being in a relationship and not having the ability to feel good about yourself can have a major impact on communication, trust and mutual respect. Below is a list of four different ways having low self-esteem can impact relationships. 

1.     Limited Potential in a Relationship- Having low self-esteem can also mean that a person is suffering from not believing in themselves and lack self-confidence. This can lead to lowering expectations of themselves and their partner in a relationship, which will most likely lead to a less fulfilling relationship or even separation. 

2.     Being Taken for Granted- This is commonly reported by people in relationships when they are suffering from low self-esteem since they feel as if their partner is always on the verge of leaving them. So in order to combat those feelings, they will give, give, and continue to give throughout the relationship in order to “ensure” that their partner will not leave them. But what ends up happening is that this is an exhausting way to have a relationship and it usually ends in resentment towards each other.

3.     Feeling Down about Yourself- Let’s be honest. Having low self-esteem feels terrible, which can also cause depressive feelings. When this happens, it can having a negative impact on one’s mental health including low energy which can also impact the relationship. Being able to push yourself can be tough but what you put into a relationship is what you get back out of it.

4.     Overbearing- A common feeling that can occur when having low self-esteem in relationships is the dependency one feels towards the other. This can include feelings such as constant attention, relying on your partner for happiness and never wanting to leave their side. 

If you feel that you are in a relationship and these feelings are familiar as to what you are experiencing, please know that we are here to help. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, men’s issues, dealing with grief, or just generally are dissatisfied with where you are in life, please reach by phone or email, 443-601-9722 or barercounseling@gmail.com.