Depression and Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem is often associated with depression. A low self-esteem can lead to depression, and depression lowers your self-esteem. They feed each other. From personal experience, my self-esteem was lowest when I was depressed. I lacked confidence in myself and became very stuck in my situation. Depression and low self-esteem is a cycle that needs to be broken.

Why Depression Lowers Self-Esteem

• Withdrawal from social interaction can make you feel isolated. It affects your sense of belonging.
• Both depression and low self-esteem are fueled by negative thoughts. When you're depressed, negative thoughts about yourself are magnified. They cloud your perception and make it harder to see the positives.
• There’s stigma associated with depression. Consequently, you may see yourself as weak or inadequate.
• Time off from work, studies or social activities leaves you without goals or a purpose. It impacts on your self-worth.
• A lack of energy can result in not getting much done. It may cause you to feel useless.
• Personal expectations are too high. Depression is a serious condition and naturally, you won’t be at your best. Keep your expectations realistic. Just like with any illness, the priority is getting better.

Building Self-Esteem While Recovering From Depression

Building self-esteem is important in the recovery from depression. When depressed you probably won’t feel like doing much, if anything. Everything may seem like a challenge. However, it’s important to take action regardless of your feelings.

• Set yourself some daily goals or have a "to do" list. Tick them off when done. This provides you with a purpose and sense of accomplishment. It doesn’t matter how seemingly small the goals are. It could be getting out of bed, eating breakfast or making a phone call. Baby steps make all the difference and achieving your goals is empowering.
• Schedule activities in a calendar or timetable. This gives you structure and a reason to get up in the morning.
• Focus on your good qualities. Write a list of positives about yourself every day.
• Use positive affirmations about yourself e.g “I am overcoming this,” “I am in control” or “I am becoming more confident.”
• Ask for mental health help or talk to family and friends. Get the professional help you need. Remember that you’re never alone and it’s okay to not be at your best.
• Change your physical location. Step outside the house if you can. If that’s too big a step, change the room you’re in. It interrupts the monotony.
• Be creative, or do things that distract your mind. For example, coloring, drawing, writing, playing or listening to music.
• Get moving. It doesn’t matter how you do it. Find what works for you and keep your expectations reasonable. I recommend taking a walk outside. Even a short walk around the block is beneficial.
• Be around people. Stroll around your local shopping center or participate in a social activity. It makes you feel like you’re part of the world.
• Volunteer. It gives you a sense of purpose, a connection with others and a stepping stone into work. You’ll feel better about yourself. I have personally done this and I strongly recommend it.

As you build your self-esteem your mood will also improve. Believe in yourself, it will get better. I personally overcame both and you can do it too.

You can find Fay Agathangelou on Facebook, Google+, Twitter and her Website.