self-esteem
Meaning of self-esteem: Self-esteem reflects a person's overall sense of self-worth, and healthcare providers may address it as part of emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Definition of self-esteem
Self-esteem is a person's overall sense of self-worth, self-confidence, and self-respect. It reflects how a person evaluates their own abilities, qualities, and value, and it can be shaped by relationships, achievements, physical appearance, and how a person believes others perceive them.
Self-esteem is not fixed and can change over time or in response to particular events, including illness, injury, or medical treatment that affects appearance or function. A serious diagnosis, a visible change from surgery or treatment, or a prolonged illness can each affect how a person feels about themselves.
In healthcare, self-esteem is recognized as one component of overall emotional and psychological wellbeing, and it is sometimes addressed directly as part of supportive or mental health care, particularly when a medical condition or its treatment has a noticeable effect on a person's body image or daily functioning.
Used in a sentence
The care team discussed how the diagnosis had affected the patient's self-esteem.
Good to know
A decline in self-esteem following illness or treatment is a recognized emotional response rather than a sign of a separate psychiatric disorder, though persistent or severe distress may warrant its own evaluation.