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.
Social psychologists study and intervene in how groups, communities and social context influence behaviour: coexistence, discrimination, community programmes and group processes in organisations.
Getting mental health care in Greenland
Public health system · Greenland's public health service
Health care in Greenland is publicly run, and new treatment options mean more residents are offered free therapeutic treatment. Recruiting psychologists is difficult, so Greenlandic-speaking psychologists living outside Greenland also provide online sessions.
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Psykolognævnet (Danish Board of Psychologists). Greenland has not had its own authorisation scheme for psychologists, and a psychologists bill was debated by the Greenland parliament in 2025. Many psychologists working in Greenland hold Danish authorisation; ask whether the psychologist is authorised.
Online therapy in Greenland
Online sessions with psychologists based outside Greenland are used to support the public service.
Urgent help in Greenland
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 112 · Alarmcentral (112)
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: ina.gl, inatsisartut.gl, inatsisartut.gl
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 social psychologist do?
A social psychologist studies how other people, groups and social context shape our thoughts, feelings and behaviour. In applied practice they work on topics such as prejudice, group conflict, community well-being, health behaviour, social inclusion and organisational culture. They design and evaluate programmes, facilitate groups, train teams and advise organisations, schools, local services or community projects.
When to see a social psychologist
A social psychologist can help a school, company, association or community facing group conflict, discrimination, low participation or the need to design a prevention or awareness programme. They are also useful for mediation and group facilitation. If what you need is personal therapy for anxiety, low mood or relationship problems, a psychologist or clinical psychologist is usually the right choice.
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 Greenland cover psychological care?
Health care in Greenland is publicly run, and new treatment options mean more residents are offered free therapeutic treatment. Recruiting psychologists is difficult, so Greenlandic-speaking psychologists living outside Greenland also provide online sessions.
How do I check that a social psychologist is licensed in Greenland?
Psykolognævnet (Danish Board of Psychologists): Greenland has not had its own authorisation scheme for psychologists, and a psychologists bill was debated by the Greenland parliament in 2025. Many psychologists working in Greenland hold Danish authorisation; ask whether the psychologist is authorised.
Can I have online therapy in Greenland?
Online sessions with psychologists based outside Greenland are used to support the public service.