The Role of Self-esteem in Addiction

Does using drugs or alcohol lead to self-esteem problems, or is low self-esteem to blame for addiction in the first place? The answer may simply be “yes.” That is, the two issues are extremely hard to separate, and one easily leads to the other.

Low self-esteem is a contributing factor for addiction, and the realities of drug or alcohol addiction can also destroy self-worth. While this may seem like the epitome of a chicken-and-egg problem, the growing body of research around addiction and mental health does offer some hints.

Although there have been a limited number of studies published about self-esteem during (or after) using substances, there is plenty of research about addiction itself. In the last few decades, as the medical and psychiatric fields have shifted to understanding addiction more as a disease and less as a moral failure, many scientists have begun investigating how, when, and why addiction happens.

Self-Esteem and Self-Medication

In more than 20% of cases, those suffering from substance use disorders meet the criteria for a co-occurring “dual” diagnosis. This means that besides substance abuse disorder, these people meet diagnostic guidelines for mental health problems like depression, anxiety, or PTSD.

These conditions can lead to deep fissures in self-esteem, which only further worsens sadness, panic, sleeplessness, and other symptoms. In lieu of seeking treatment, people may attempt to minimize the severity of these problems and self-medicate with substance abuse.

To make the matter even more confusing, self-medicating may not even be a conscious phenomenon when it first begins. For example, having a glass of wine “to take the edge off” is a common practice that is frequently depicted in TV and movies. Some people can stop at one glass, but others—especially those with underlying mental health conditions—may find themselves “needing to take the edge off” earlier and earlier in the day, or with more and more alcohol.

Low Self-esteem and Drug Abuse

It’s hard to track “self-esteem,” as it’s a fairly subjective rating that addiction specialists don’t often focus on, but the clinical course of addiction and the accompanying negative changes in quality of life provide a sort of roadmap.

For example, an at-risk person starts out with a relatively mild issue (like anxiety) that makes substance abuse attractive but is otherwise functional. Unfortunately, this person finds that any previously-existing issues are magnified, not solved, by using drugs or alcohol. Increasing anxiety and negative thoughts help turn substance abuse into full-blown addiction, and the “functionality” of the at-risk person starts to deteriorate rapidly.

Low self-esteem can lead to addiction as individuals with low self-worth often seek external means to cope, validate, or numb their feelings. The temporary relief or high from drugs or alcohol can provide a fleeting sense of confidence or escape, making it an attractive solution for those struggling with self-esteem issues.

Signs of Low Self-esteem

• Constant Self-Criticism: Individuals with low self-esteem often have a persistent inner critic that belittles their achievements and magnifies their mistakes.
• Overly Sensitive to Criticism: They might take neutral or constructive feedback as a personal attack.
• Indecisiveness: A fear of making the wrong choice due to a lack of trust in their own judgment.
• Reluctance to Take Risks: Avoiding new experiences or challenges due to fear of failure.
• Feelings of Worthlessness: Believing they don't deserve happiness or success.

Further Reading: 5 Signs You Are a People-Pleaser

As soon as this person’s addiction starts having negative real-world consequences, they may enter an increasingly serious mental and emotional spiral. This is because previous barriers to self-destruction like jobs and family will no longer stand in the way of the addict’s behavior.

What is The Relationship Between Self-Perception and Drug Addiction?

The scars of addiction can persist in the form of guilt or shame for years, even if the affected individual gets sober. Most serious addicts have hurt people close to them, ruined future career prospects with an arrest record, and/or do things they would never have thought themselves capable of to support their habit.

This doesn’t mean that healing and recovery aren’t possible, but before most addicts can resume “normal” life, they will need a period to put themselves back together again after completely destroying their self-worth during the process of addiction.

One place to start to rebuild this sense of worth is to help others in need. Programs like Alcoholics Anonymous understand this, which is why sponsoring other recovering addicts is a central tenant of the program. If an addict takes an active and thoughtful role in his/her recovery, the trauma of addiction and the damage to self-esteem that it caused will fade with time.

Helping Recovering Addicts Overcome Low Self-esteem

Addiction destroys self-image and takes productive people out of their families, their jobs, and sometimes even their homes. Because of the emotional spiral precipitated by substance abuse, early intervention may be one of the most effective tools to stop the number of addicted Americans from climbing even higher.

Although problems with self-esteem associated with a higher likelihood of addiction are complex, they can often be treated in the context of other mental health disorders. Strengthening the availability of mental health care and treatment facilities is a good place to start. Telemedicine and other technologies are one way that Americans who live in remote or underserved communities could access providers.

It’s also important that society continues to work on normalizing conversations about mental health and emotional struggle for everyone.

This way, people suffering from mental health or self-esteem issues can be intercepted before their lives go off the rails due to addiction if they attempt to self-treat or medicate symptoms.

Regardless of whether help comes on the community- state- or federal level, the staggering number of people suffering (and dying) from addiction should speak for itself. Doing nothing is no longer an option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on The Relationship between Self-esteem and Addiction

Accordion #1 Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. What is the importance of self-esteem in addiction?

Self-esteem plays a pivotal role in addiction. Individuals with low self-esteem often seek external means, like drugs or alcohol, to cope with their feelings of worthlessness or inadequacy. A strong sense of self-worth can act as a protective factor, reducing the likelihood of turning to substances as a coping mechanism.

How does drug abuse affect self-esteem?

Drug abuse can severely impact an individual’s self-esteem. While initially, substances might offer a temporary boost in confidence or relief from negative feelings, prolonged use can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and worthlessness. As addiction progresses, individuals often face negative consequences in their personal and professional lives, further diminishing their self-worth.

What is the root cause of self-esteem issues?

The root causes of self-esteem issues can vary widely among individuals. They can stem from childhood experiences, such as bullying, neglect, or trauma, societal pressures related to appearance or success, or personal failures and disappointments. Genetics and individual personality traits can also influence self-esteem.

How does self-esteem influence behavior?

Self-esteem significantly influences an individual’s behavior. Those with high self-esteem are more likely to take risks, embrace challenges, and believe in their abilities. In contrast, individuals with low self-esteem might avoid new experiences, doubt their capabilities, and be overly critical of themselves.

How can one rebuild self-esteem after overcoming addiction?

Rebuilding self-esteem after addiction is a gradual process. It involves recognizing and celebrating small victories, seeking therapy or counseling to address underlying issues, joining support groups to share experiences and gain encouragement, setting achievable goals, and practicing self-compassion and self-care. Engaging in positive activities and hobbies can also help in restoring a sense of purpose and self-worth.

Why is addressing self-esteem crucial in addiction treatment programs?

Addressing self-esteem is vital in addiction treatment because low self-worth can be both a cause and a consequence of substance abuse. By boosting self-esteem, individuals are better equipped to resist relapse, face challenges head-on, and believe in their ability to lead a substance-free life. A positive self-image also promotes better mental health, which is crucial for long-term recovery.

Can improving self-esteem prevent the onset of addiction in at-risk individuals?

While improving self-esteem alone might not entirely prevent the onset of addiction, it can act as a protective factor. Individuals with high self-esteem are less likely to turn to substances as a means of coping with stress, anxiety, or emotional pain. They often have better coping mechanisms and a stronger support system, reducing the risk of substance abuse.