Depression Support Group

Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.

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How do I learn to like myself?

gabbylea
gabbylea

I hate every part of me. I hate my soul, my body, and my very being. I would give anything in the world to not be me. For as long as I could remember, I haven't been able to look at myself in the mirror or have a picture taken of me. It feels impossible to think or say anything positive of myself or to find one aspect that I like. I'm used to people thinking little of me or insulting me; therefore, whenever someone says something nice to me, I automatically feel disgusted and sad. I assume they are lying or delusional. 


I understand that part of recovery involves learning to love oneself, but I simply cannot see how that is possible. I've had people say that I should speak to myself as if I were talking to a friend, but I am not my friend. I don't know anymore. What do other people do to help with this?

bornconfused
bornconfused
hey @gabbylea, this is somethng im currently struggling with too... learning how to love myself.. and its really hard, harder than you think! and I still dont fully understand it, but what i did first was surround myself with the people i knew i could completely trust... so that when they complimented me i didnt doubt them... and from there it gave me courage to make small changes in my life... like doing things that make me happy.... that took a lot of time to figure out... but just finding one thing- it doesnt have to be anything big or outrageous.... it can be something as simple as going for a walk or watching a particular show.... anything that genuinely makes you smile... and from there just focus on that moment and feeling of happiness and in time you will be able to expand on that!!!
Ashley_epy
Ashley_epy
Me too. I feel like that everyday. But I am learning how to love myself. Little by little. Maybe you can find a friend that has the same thing as you, and u both could talk. Cause a friend always makes you forget all problems
Tired51
Tired51
I went through this myself. You can pull yourself through it. You can do it. It took strength for you to post on DS, so you have that to start with. Use that strength and build on it. I believe in you. YOU HAVE PURPOSE, YOU MATTER AND YOU HAVE STRENGTH. Stay strong!!!
gjr015
gjr015
You need to realize that you are not perfect but everyone is unique in their own way which is good. And you just gotta find what is unique inside of you. Maybe you won't realize it that soon but try to sit down and make list about yourself and what is inside your mind. It usually helps me.
Melons
Melons
I am actually going through the same issue right now and something that i have been suggested was to do something that you think you might be good at or something that you enjoy and praise yourself for it and surround yourself with people that you feel comfortable around people don't make you feel ashamed of being you.. and if you don't have anyone like that in real life, there is always lots of support and understanding here.