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 Poland
Public health system · Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia (NFZ)
Since 17 September 2025 an NFZ-funded visit to a psychologist no longer needs a referral. Adult Mental Health Centres (Centra Zdrowia Psychicznego) offer free help without referral or prior registration. Waiting times for psychologists and psychotherapy vary widely by region. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Krajowa Izba Psychologów (National Chamber of Psychologists), under the Act of 23 January 2026 on the psychologist profession. The 2026 act creates a public Register of Psychologists kept by regional councils and published by the National Chamber; the right to practise starts on entry in the register. Most provisions are reported to apply from 2028.
- Naczelna Izba Lekarska (Supreme Medical Chamber). Doctors must hold the right to practise; check the Central Register of Doctors and the psychiatry specialisation. Search the official register
Urgent help in Poland
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 112 · Emergencias
- 116 123 · Telefon zaufania 116 123
- 800 70 2222 · Centrum Wsparcia
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: api.sejm.gov.pl, gov.pl, gazetaprawna.pl, gov.pl
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 Poland cover psychological care?
Since 17 September 2025 an NFZ-funded visit to a psychologist no longer needs a referral. Adult Mental Health Centres (Centra Zdrowia Psychicznego) offer free help without referral or prior registration. Waiting times for psychologists and psychotherapy vary widely by region.
How do I check that a social psychologist is licensed in Poland?
Krajowa Izba Psychologów (National Chamber of Psychologists), under the Act of 23 January 2026 on the psychologist profession: The 2026 act creates a public Register of Psychologists kept by regional councils and published by the National Chamber; the right to practise starts on entry in the register. Most provisions are reported to apply from 2028.