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.
Psychoanalysts work with psychoanalytic or psychodynamic therapy, which explores how past experiences and unconscious patterns shape present feelings and relationships. It is usually a longer, in-depth process. Training and titles vary by country: check each professional’s background.
Getting mental health care in Ivory Coast
Public health system · Programme national de santé mentale (PNSM), Ministère de la Santé
The Hôpital psychiatrique de Bingerville, open since 1962, is the main public specialist mental health hospital and offers psychiatric consultations. The national mental health programme follows a 2023-2025 strategic plan and aims to decentralise mental health services to all levels of the health system; a project runs community mental health care in 15 health centres of Greater Abidjan. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Ordre national des médecins de Côte d'Ivoire. All doctors authorised to practise, including psychiatrists, must be entered on the roll of the Ordre des médecins (governed by Law 2021-555). Ask for the doctor's order registration.
- No professional order (Ministry of Health, DEPPS). There is no order for psychologists; the Ministry of Health's DEPPS directorate has been compiling a directory of psychology professionals. Check the psychologist's university degree.
Urgent help in Ivory Coast
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 110 · Police secours (aussi 111 ou 170)
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: news.abidjan.net, prph4.expertisefrance.fr, loidici.biz, afrique-sur7.fr
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 psychoanalyst do?
A psychoanalyst works with people who want to explore how early experiences, desires, conflicts and unconscious patterns influence how they feel, relate and choose today. Day to day they listen closely, help connect present difficulties with personal history, and pay attention to dreams, repetitions and the relationship with the analyst. Sessions are usually frequent and the process tends to be long-term.
When to see a psychoanalyst
Psychoanalysis or psychodynamic therapy may suit you if you notice repeating patterns in relationships, a persistent sense of emptiness or dissatisfaction, or want to understand yourself in depth and are open to a longer process. If you need quick relief for a specific symptom, such as panic attacks or a phobia, a structured approach like CBT may be more appropriate first.
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 Ivory Coast cover psychological care?
The Hôpital psychiatrique de Bingerville, open since 1962, is the main public specialist mental health hospital and offers psychiatric consultations. The national mental health programme follows a 2023-2025 strategic plan and aims to decentralise mental health services to all levels of the health system; a project runs community mental health care in 15 health centres of Greater Abidjan.
How do I check that a psychoanalyst is licensed in Ivory Coast?
Ordre national des médecins de Côte d'Ivoire: All doctors authorised to practise, including psychiatrists, must be entered on the roll of the Ordre des médecins (governed by Law 2021-555). Ask for the doctor's order registration.