Creating real self esteem, one must do and behave in a way that they have respect for their own deeds. If you respect someone else you should respect them for their deeds. Unfortunately in todays society at least, people tend to respect power, money, and any other outcome instead of actual deeds. A poor outlook.
Point 2. There is a close relationship between depression, and low self esteem.
Here are some questions you should ask yourself.
Do you feel week, tired etc.?
Are you somber?
No reason to wake up or excitement in life?
As far as reading material. I would reccomend Rabbi Dr. Twerski’s books (the non-kosher ones). Especially the peanuts series.
Good luck!