Depression and Self-Esteem in-person therapy in New Orleans or online therapy for Baton Rouge, Northshore, Metairie, & residents of Louisiana and Alabama
Depression and self-esteem are interconnected, as together, they often create a cycle that can be difficult to break. Low self-esteem can either contribute to depression or be a consequence of it, creating a self-contained loop of negative thoughts and emotions. However, if you want to break that cycle, Jill Kelly is a New Orleans therapist who provides cognitive behavioral therapy online and in-person.
The Connection Between Depression and Self-Esteem
Understanding the relationship between self-esteem and depression is helpful for finding and implementing strategies for healing and growth.
Self-esteem directly influences how we manage challenges, relationships, and life’s ups and downs. It is a concept that refers to how we perceive and value ourselves. Low self-esteem makes us more likely to internalize negative thoughts that make us feel unworthy, incapable, or unlovable. These internalized feelings can lead to and exacerbate depression and related symptoms like chronic sadness, lack of motivation, or hopelessness.
Conversely, depression can have a substantial impact on self-esteem. It often distorts one’s self-image, contributing to self-doubt and feeling inadequate. People with depression may reconcile life’s inevitable setbacks as evidence of personal failures. This mistaken perception reinforces low self-esteem.
The Cycle Can Be Broken
It is possible to break the cycle between depression and self-esteem even when it becomes overwhelming. Consider -
- Cognitive distortions are common factors of self-esteem and depression. Examples include all-or-nothing thinking or catastrophizing. Instead of defaulting to “I failed, so I’m worthless,” consider reframing it as, “This didn’t go as planned, but I can learn from it.”
- Self-compassion fosters resilience and helps rebuild self-esteem, so it is important to treat yourself with the same kindness you would provide to a friend.
- Depression frequently drains energy and enthusiasm. But engaging in creative activities, exercising, or enjoying nature can create a positive feedback loop that lifts one’s mood and offers a gratifying sense of achievement.
Seeking Professional Support
Building self-esteem and managing depression takes time and patience, but with the right support, tools, and resources, healing is possible. Therapy is a powerful tool for many who wish to manage depression and self-esteem issues better. Therapists are trained to frame the problems, create strategies for coping with them, and provide a safe space to do the work.
The journey to overcoming depression and improving self-esteem is not linear, but every step you take in the direction of healing is significant and can be used a springboard to reach your objectives.