Are practical problems getting you down?

Do you often feel that it’s your fault that you’re feeling so low?   Or that you are guilty of something you shouldn’t have done?  Do you blame yourself for things that are not really your fault?

Don’t be hard on yourself!  It’s not your fault that you suffer from depression!

Depressed people tend to blame themselves for things that are not really their fault.  This is very unfair and makes them feel guilty and low.

Depression is very common.  It is an illness, just like Multiple Sclerosis, diabetes, or cancer.  It is no-one’s fault if they develop depression.  It is caused by many factors, including changes in the chemical balance in the brain.  Depression may also be triggered by stresses and life difficulties in the past and present.  For some people, genetic factors may also be involved.

Blaming yourself for your depression will only make you feel worse and lower your self-confidence still further.

If you find that you are unfairly blaming yourself for something, ask yourself: ‘Would I be this hard on my best friend?’  If not, remember that it is only fair to use the same rules for you as for other people.

Instead, take some time to focus on your positive side.  Make a list of some of the things that you are good at.  All of your qualities, talents and skills have not disappeared, even though you are depressed.