Self Help

People with feelings of inferiority and low self-esteem are likely to feel depressed. To alleviate this depression, they must correct their self-image. It is important, however, that the type of self-image distortion be identified, because it is possible that it is a consequence of depression rather than a cause, and that treatment with medication may be necessary along with psychotherapy.

We now know that there are a variety of chemical changes that can produce depression. A number of medications, both prescribed and over the counter, can also cause depression. Among these are decongestants, frequently used for relief of sinus conditions, hay fever, or the common cold; some appetite suppressants; and some antihistamines, especially if taken more often than recommended. It is also possible for internal bodily changes such as hepatitis, infectious mononucleosis, or any severe viral illness, a surgical procedure, or the hormonal changes of the premenstrual, postpartum, or menopausal phases to result in depression.

Sleep disturbance can result in depression, and it is possible for depression to be of genetic origin. A grief reaction following a personal loss can progress into a clinical depression, but it is important to be aware that severe depression can be based solely on a biochemical change. The symptoms of severe depression may include loss of sleep, loss of appetite, loss of interest in things, loss of sex drive, crying, inability to concentrate, despair, and death wishes. These feelings are generally accompanied by intense feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy, the feelings comprising low self-esteem.

It is important to recognize that in this situation, the feelings of worthlessness and inferiority may be secondary to a depression of biochemical origin. When the depression is relieved with proper treatment, the feelings of worthlessness may disappear. A person who had a very positive self-image may develop a severely negative self-image due to a clinical depression. When the depression is appropriately treated, the positive self-image returns. One of the distinguishing features between depression due to a negative self-image and clinical depression is that the latter almost invariably has an onset. The person “felt fine until about eight months ago.”

When depression stems from feelings of inferiority, it has generally been a part of that individual’s personality for as long as anyone can remember. The problem is that during clinical depression, a person may be looking at life through smoked glass. He sees the past, present, and future as all being bleak. He may very well say, “I felt this way about myself since I can remember,” which may not be true. Family members may be able to provide more accurate information about when the negative feelings occurred. We do not yet have a laboratory test that can diagnose clinical depression. When in doubt, it may be wise to get treatment for the clinical depression in order to build your self-esteem.