Rejection is usually difficult to deal with, no matter the situation. Rejection can elicit strong emotions, comparable to those experienced when a friendship ends, one is shunned by peers, a sexual relationship terminates, or one is excluded by family. Rejection can be quite uncomfortable, yet everyone has gone through it at some point. Although rejection is inevitable in life, there are strategies to protect yourself from its harmful repercussions.
Self-esteem and rejection are intimately associated. Strong self-esteem and self-confidence can support you in dealing with rejection in positive, healthy ways. Additionally, research indicates that as you heal, aggression and confidence may also appear. The biggest obstacle to healing from rejection in a healthy way may be low self-esteem, but confidence and self-worth may be developed with time and work. There are additional advantages as well. For example, having strong self-esteem can occasionally shield you contrary to mental health issues like anxiety and depression, which are more common in those who have suffered from extreme rejection or ostracism.
Additionally, research indicates that maintaining positive self-image and confidence can support the adoption of good coping mechanisms for emotions instead of negative ones like substance abuse.