Feeling worthless is often a symptom of depression, but can also happen after periods of abuse, trauma, neglect, low self-esteem or a difficult situation such as failure.

Alongside feeling worthless, you may experience a sense of hopelessness, insignificance and distress, making it hard to cope with daily life. You may lose motivation to go to work or pursue your goals because you think there is no point.

If you’re feeling like this, it’s important to take steps to manage these feelings. There are ways to make yourself feel a whole lot better and there are people you can talk to if needed.

How to Fight Feelings of Worthlessness?

There are many ways to boost your sense of self-worth and fight feelings of worthlessness. While there is no on or off button, here are some ideas that might help.

Practice Positive Self-Talk

If you’re feeling worthless, this can often lead to a pattern of negative thinking. When you notice negative self-talk, think about how you can change the thought into something more positive. Instead of saying ‘’I am useless,’’ say something like, ‘’I will do small things each day to better myself.’’

Start a Gratitude Journal

Worthlessness can take hold when you focus too much on what you don’t have. Instead of this, use a gratitude journal to fill out daily details of what you are grateful for. Focusing on the positive instead of what you are lacking, will help build self-esteem.

Do Something Kind for Other People

If you’re feeling worthless, spending time helping others who are struggling may help. Research has shown that volunteering has surprising benefits for mental and physical health. In fact, the more you do it, the happier you become! Helping others also lets you know that you’re not alone and that others struggle, just like you.

Practice Mindfulness Meditation

Meditation can help change the relationship we have with our thoughts. If you’re experiencing feelings of worthlessness, regular meditation can help build self-esteem and increase confidence. Improve your mental well-being with relaxing meditations on the BetterSleep app.

Remember Your Worth

To release feelings of worthlessness you can start by remembering your worth. Accept the things you cannot change and remember all the positive moments in your life. Forgive yourself for past wrongdoings and start being kind to yourself.

Where to Get Help if These Feelings Persist?

If your feelings of worthlessness persist, talk to your local health professional. Prolonged feelings of worthlessness can point to an underlying mental health condition. You’ll be asked about your feelings, to help your GP pinpoint a cause such as depression, anxiety, recent trauma or a medical condition.

In the meantime, check out the BetterSleep app for soothing music and sounds, guided meditations and bedtime stories to help you relax.