What is negative self-talk?

Negative self-talk refers to the critical and often detrimental thoughts we have about ourselves. This kind of internal dialogue can include harsh criticisms, pessimistic predictions, and self-doubt. It often leads to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Recognizing and addressing negative self-talk is an essential part of many therapeutic processes, including peer support and mental health recovery.

For instance, someone engaging in negative self-talk might think, "I’m not good enough," or "I always mess things up." These thoughts can hinder personal growth and change, making it crucial for individuals, especially in a peer support context, to work on transforming these harmful messages into more supportive and constructive ones.