How can mental health disorders affect an individual's self-concept?

Mental health disorders often disrupt an individual's perception of themselves, leading to a negative self-image and diminished self-esteem. These conditions can create feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness, and worthlessness, making it difficult for individuals to view themselves positively. For example, someone experiencing depression may struggle with persistent negative thoughts about their abilities and appearance, which can erode self-confidence. This altered self-perception can become a cycle; as the self-image declines, it can exacerbate the symptoms of the mental health disorder, further impacting how the individual sees themselves. Consequently, the profound effects of mental health disorders on self-concept are characterized by this negative shift rather than any enhancement of positive attributes like confidence or social skills.