Book excerpt: In an age where self-esteem is seen as essential to mental health, we are seeing unprecedented rises in mental health difficulties from depression anxiety, eating disorders and many others. Is there not a dichotomy at play here? Is Self - Esteem (ie 'I live for my rating') a reality at all or simply a myth we are all buying into. In this book bestselling author Harry Barry challenges the conventional wisdom and explores why the terms self-acceptance, self-respect and self-actualization are more helpful in developing positive mental health. In his trademark style he also provides practical examples of what we should all be doing instead to build confidence and reach our full potential. Part 1: The myth of self-esteem Part 2: Debunking the myth of 'low self-esteem' Part 3: Debunking the myth of 'high self-esteem' Part 4: Debunking the myth 'others can dictate my self-esteem'