What is indicated by "low self-esteem" as a cause of substance abuse?

The indication of "low self-esteem" as a cause of substance abuse points to the potential vulnerability to addiction. Individuals with low self-esteem may turn to substances as a way to cope with their feelings of inadequacy, shame, or self-doubt. They might use alcohol or drugs to escape their negative thoughts about themselves or to enhance their perceived self-worth temporarily. This reliance on substances can develop into a pattern of use that leads to addiction, as the individual seeks to repeatedly fill the emotional void created by low self-esteem.

In contrast, increased confidence and improved social connections typically relate to positive mental states and outcomes, which do not align with the emotional struggles associated with low self-esteem. Heightened emotional stability also suggests a healthy management of emotions, which low self-esteem often undermines. Thus, recognizing how low self-esteem can lead to vulnerability to addiction is crucial in understanding the psychological factors influencing substance abuse.