[wewed100606]

Does anyone have any suggestions, other than the obvious, in how to help boost the self-esteem/self-image of a loved one? I am already positive and give compliments, but I feel like it is going to take more? Any people out there who have successfully changed their "low self esteem/self image" and would like to share what helped them? Thanks ahead of time!

[Choux]

The more different kinds of activities an individual can do in life, the better the chances that person will have a good self-image, in my opinion.

Learn a sport and become proficient, take up a couple of hobbies, go to night school and learn how to plant gardens, visit the elderly as one's altruistic project, have lots of friends to do stuff with. For women, if all they do is obsess about their bodies and their husbands instead of having a well-balanced happy life, the more their self-image will suffer.

[jrebel7]

Wewed, having had self-esteem/self-self-image issues myself earlier, I can share how I dealt with it. You are doing great by being positive and givng compliments but I have had friends who have dealt with this issue within themelves and I would share for hours with them for months. Each time we would visit, it would be the same issues. It was like they never heard anything I shared. It is something that a person has to resolve within themselves but positive reinforcements from friends and loved ones are paramount in the support area.

I want to give this question the time it deserves in being answered and do not have that amount of time right now but will get back with you very soon. I know others will have great suggestions for you. I will get back with you though, soon.

[wewed100606]

I look forward to it jrebel7. There is a lot going on in our situation, but I know she isn't happy with herself and it hurts me because to me she is the image of perfection... mind, body and soul. In our situation though, no matter how positive or heartfelt my comments are, they are met with an irresistible force and rendered meaningless.

[jrebel7]

Hey there Wewed! I sent a note in Private Message because it was sort of lengthy.

One thing I didn't mention is that when we share with friends or family (loved ones), we can only share what we know and believe to be true. It is always up to the individual we are sharing with to really hear what we are sharing. They have a responsibility to seek answers on their own also. All we can do basically is love them, accept them, share what is in our hearts. The rest is up to them. I have visited with friends and family members time and again, only to hear the same questions and statements as if they are in a circle of thought they cannot break. You sound like a caring person who desires to fix what hurts in others. Sadly, we can only encourage. We each must make this journey through life and find answers, but how much more blessed your loved one is to have you to help them through this journey. Best to you!