A major component of depression is distorted thinking. The negative thoughts associated with depression impact emotions and behaviors. Therefore, acknowledgment of a person's positive aspects is essential in overcoming depression. Since women are twice as likely as men to have a major depressive episode during their lifetimes, according to the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM-IV-TR), affirmations for women coming out of depression are particularly important for recovery.
Depression Is Temporary
Coming out of a prolonged state of sadness, fatigue and apathy is a process that can last weeks, months and even years. Although depression is a treatable mental illness, it is not curable. The condition may wax and wane over the course of a lifetime or occur during a distinct period of time and then never again. It is beneficial for women to remind themselves that their condition is temporary. In the June 2009 issue of "Psychology and Psychotherapy," researchers found that affirming depression will subside in time had a significant positive impact on recovery.
There Is Hope
A major hindrance to overcoming depression is feeling hopeless or helpless. As depression remits, some days can be more symptomatic than others. Focusing on the setbacks instead of the progress, however minor, is counter-productive. When symptoms return, this may cause women to feel like helpless victims. As such, it is important for women to remind themselves that they are not helpless and they are doing their best to get better.
I Deserve To Be Happy
Low self-esteem and little or no self-worth are characteristic of depressed women. Their mistaken belief that they do not deserve to be happy can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy. When bad things happen, women may feel guilt for having brought about these unfortunate circumstances. It is illogical to think that people always get what they deserve in life. Therefore, women should not judge their self-worth by their circumstances. Women should remind themselves daily that they deserve to be happy in order to break free from their negative thoughts.
I Can Do This
In the introduction to his daily talk show, Dr. Phil McGraw states, "I know things are hard out there but we can do this." Believing that something is possible is more than half the battle in bringing it to fruition. Repeating "I can do this" helps boost confidence and self-esteem. These four simple words can help alleviate the anticipatory anxiety experienced before a dreaded situation. This is especially helpful for depressed women who are prone to pessimistic, catastrophic thinking about even the most mundane circumstance.
