SELF-CRITICISM
HOME > Services > Areas of Counseling >
Do you feel beaten down by self-criticism?
High self-critics are constantly looking for personal weakness and failure, and their self-evaluation is relentlessly negative. Self-critical thoughts take the form of self-bashing and may sound like: “I’m not good enough” and “I can’t do anything right.” When a failure or set-back does occur, a self-attack may be activated. During a self-attack, the most destructive form of self-criticism, feelings of disgust and hatred for oneself are at all all-time high and have the potential to contribute to thoughts and behaviors related to self-injury.
10 general signs that you are overly self-critical:
- Feeling easily disappointed in yourself
- Relentless self-evaluation that is negative
- Blaming yourself for negative outcomes
- Excessive concern with failure
- Inability to derive satisfaction in the face of success
- Ongoing efforts to find or overly analyze mistakes/flaws
- Avoidance of risk-taking behaviors
- Holding impossibly high standards
- Body image issues
- Desire to destroy, harm, or punish parts of yourself
5 signs of being overly self-critical in relationships:
- Difficulty accepting compliments
- Defensive in the face of feedback
- Avoidance of expressing your opinion
- Comparing yourself to others
- Difficulty asking for help
It’s time to rethink about the perceived benefits of self-criticism.
Many people hold the view that self-criticism is important to creating a successful life path. In this regard, self-criticism is a source of motivation that keeps them from disappointing themselves and others. A self-statement that aligns with this view may be something like, “Well, self-criticism has gotten me this far and there is no sense in abandoning it now.”
However, did you know that high self-criticism has been shown to sabotage healthy self-esteem, goal setting, relationships with others, and mental health and wellness?
Self-criticism is related to mental health issues such as:
Self-criticism also contributes to poor relationships with others characterized by:
- Interactions that are cold, distant, or cynical
- Feelings of inferiority
- Less self-disclosure in intimate relationships
Learn how to break the cycle of self-criticism.
Counseling and therapy at Wellness Grove…
Our in-person (outpatient) counseling services are offered in Canton OH (near Akron, North Canton, and Massillon). We also offer telemental health sessions to all Ohio residents.
FREE CONSULTATION
Sometimes, all it takes is a single conversation to see things more clearly. Our free 15-minute consultation with a licensed therapist is a simple, no-pressure way to explore what’s weighing on your mind and discover how counseling could help. Whether you’re seeking balance within yourself, peace in your relationships, direction in your work, or support in parenting, we’re here, let’s talk. Click on our Free Consultation Link to get started, or learn more by visiting our Free Consultation page at: https://wellnessgrove.com/services/free-consultation/
Wellness Grove
