I have very low self-esteem also. What helps is doing things that make you happy and trying to do your best at whatever you do. Little baby steps of happiness and success can go a long way. I try to enjoy my life with what I have- eating out, listening to music, walking in the park, watching movies. I also try to do the best I can at my job- positive feedback does wonders for self-esteem. Finally, let go of blaming others for your situation and try to be responsible for yourself and your actions. I come from a dysfunctional family. They are probably nuttier than I am. I also come from an abusive family. My father was a violent man and over-critical and my mother was the epitome of self-hatred and loathing. Thus, coming from such a family, I could have easily keep blaming them for my situation. But, I stopped doing this. I am an adult now. I know right from wrong. So, my family is screwed up. But, I will try not to be as screwed up. It is not easy to let go of one's upbringing and past. I have done it to a certain extent though and feel more in charge of my future and present. For example, I used to not take my medication and was hospitalized many times. I also became homeless because of this. After becoming homeless and seeing what reality really is in its rawest form, I came to my senses and forgave all in my family and most of all started to be more responsible for my actions. I am no success story. However, I feel better about myself. I encourage you to find it within yourself to value who you are by appreciating what you have no matter how little it may be. I am not rich. I am not smart. I am not beautiful. But, I am happy because I see things from a positive light and this has changed my world dramatically. We are all valuable and worth it- this includes you and me. I hope this helps. Happy New Year!