About self-esteem
Low self-esteem affects how we see ourselves, our relationships and our decisions. Therapy helps identify self-critical thoughts, recognise strengths and build a more realistic and kind relationship with yourself.
Psychologists assess and treat emotional, behavioural and relationship difficulties through psychological therapy. They do not prescribe medication. In many countries clinical practice requires a specific qualification and registration with a licensing body, which Therapy247 checks.
Getting mental health care in Bangladesh
Public health system · Government health services (Directorate General of Health Services) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Public mental health care is concentrated in the National Institute of Mental Health and Hospital in Dhaka, a government specialist hospital whose psychiatrists and psychologists provide treatment, counselling and psychotherapy, plus psychiatry departments of medical college hospitals. Services at primary care and community level are very limited, mental health receives less than 1% of the national health budget, and it is not a clear part of universal health coverage or social health insurance. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC). Doctors, including psychiatrists, must be registered with the BMDC and renew their registration. Check the doctor's BMDC registration number and that it is current. Search the official register
Urgent help in Bangladesh
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 999 · National Emergency Service
- 09612119911 · Kaan Pete Roi
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: nimh.gov.bd, cambridge.org, cdn.who.int, bmdc.org.bd
Signs to look out for
Everyone doubts themselves sometimes. Low self-esteem may be holding you back when you are constantly self-critical, feel you are not good enough whatever you achieve, compare yourself unfavourably with others, struggle to accept compliments, avoid challenges for fear of failing, find it hard to say no, or feel that others’ opinions define your worth. It often accompanies anxiety or low mood.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Psychologists and psychotherapists can help you identify where your harsh inner voice comes from and develop a kinder, more realistic view of yourself. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and schema therapy are commonly used. Work on assertiveness and boundaries is often included. If low self-esteem relates to body image or eating, specialised support may be needed.
When to seek urgent help
Low self-esteem alone is rarely an emergency, but it can come with depression. If feelings of worthlessness lead to thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Seek prompt help too if you are being bullied, harassed or abused, or if you are restricting food or self-harming.
What you can do in the meantime
Notice your inner critic and ask whether you would speak to a friend that way. Write down small achievements and qualities others appreciate in you. Spend time with people who treat you well and reduce exposure to content that makes you compare yourself. Try small challenges, practise saying no in low-stakes situations, and look after your body with rest and movement.
What does a psychologist do?
A psychologist spends most of the working day talking with people about what worries them and helping them change it. That includes assessing the difficulty, agreeing goals, and using structured psychological techniques in sessions with adults, teenagers, children, couples or families. Between sessions they prepare materials, write notes, and sometimes coordinate with doctors, schools or other professionals, always with your consent.
When to see a psychologist
It makes sense to see a psychologist when anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship problems, a loss or a difficult change start to affect your sleep, work or relationships, or when you simply want to understand yourself better. If symptoms are very severe, you may need medication, or there are signs of a medical cause, a psychiatrist or your doctor should be involved too.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Bangladesh cover psychological care?
Public mental health care is concentrated in the National Institute of Mental Health and Hospital in Dhaka, a government specialist hospital whose psychiatrists and psychologists provide treatment, counselling and psychotherapy, plus psychiatry departments of medical college hospitals. Services at primary care and community level are very limited, mental health receives less than 1% of the national health budget, and it is not a clear part of universal health coverage or social health insurance.
How do I check that a psychologist is licensed in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC): Doctors, including psychiatrists, must be registered with the BMDC and renew their registration. Check the doctor's BMDC registration number and that it is current.