How do I build confidence?

Dear Annie: Lately, I have been feeling like I am not good enough. I have anxiety and depression, which I have had since I was young, to the point where I have attempted suicide four times. I used to have anorexia and bulimia and cut myself on my arms and legs. I had thought this was the one thing in my life I had control over. I am not proud of myself for those days.

I have children now, and my son, at14 years old, questions himself like I did — and do. I keep comparing myself to women, and not just women but my best friends, from their faces to their bodies.

Even though I have been told I am beautiful, I never believe it. And it’s so hard sometimes because I don’t want my son to go down the same road as me. I am scared, honestly, because I see so much of myself in him, and even though I try to say positive things about myself, I just never can.

When I am depressed, I cry on and off all day.

I know that the things I do affect them.I guess what I’m needing to know is this: How do you build confidence? How do you stop your child from repeating your life? — Hurting

Dear Hurting: You should seek the help of a professional therapist as soon as possible. You are dealing with depression, low self-worth and what sounds like a continued eating disorder. None of these diseases is your fault, but you must get help.

So much of good parenting comes from modeling good behaviors, and showing yourself appreciation will allow your son to appreciate himself, too. You can even say to your son that his mom sometimes feels insecure, but she wants to change and is seeking the help of a professional to do so.

Being an open-minded person willing to look at yourself, admit your mistakes and say you need help is a wonderful example to set for your kids.