We often treat our friends with more kindness than we offer ourselves. When a colleague makes a mistake, we might offer words of encouragement; when we make that same mistake, we often respond with harsh self-criticism.
Depression is often accompanied by a harsh internal critic. When you are struggling with low mood, fatigue, or cognitive fog, it is common to view these symptoms as personal failures. However, integrating self-compassion is a functional component.
These moments are never easy, and often, we avoid them altogether. But avoiding difficult conversations can actually worsen things, especially when it comes to supporting someone’s mental health awareness. It’s okay to feel anxious or unsure about what to say.