Self-Esteem issues

[KJauron]

I have incredibly low self-esteem. Extremely low. I mean, to the point where I feel guilty for someone else getting in trouble for something, if I can be related in any way (The girl sitting near me failed a test, I feel horrible because I didn't help her, etc). I know I have low self-esteem, and I've been trying to improve it, but I am having trouble.

I ponder on my past and future a lot. Something that happened four years ago, I can remember it and start feeling guilty about it or angry at myself all over again. I'm very driven to succeed- I got an alternate position for a major competition and was furious with myself. It's gotten to the point where I've been hurting my relationships with my friends and family, because I'm afraid that if they see certain aspects of my personality, they'll leave. I don't like to look in the mirror, I'm at an average weight for my height and have been beginning to worry about that now, I really don't like a lot about myself, and want desperately to change that. Any help would be truly appreciated.

[Philosoraptor]

Seek therapy if your issues are this bad. I went through this when I was younger and just couldn't believe anyone could like me for the person that I was. It wasn't fun but it's something you can get through if you are willing to work at it. Look at yourself from an outside perspective and ask the question "why wouldn't someone like me the way that I am?"

[oldguy]

I agree with Philosoraptor.

did this behavior begin 4 years ago as a result of what ever happened or has it just escalated?

[KJauron]

I'm sorry, I should have been more clear, the four years ago bit was just an example My mistake