10 Symptoms of Dysthymia
6. Criticizing Oneself
Another symptom of dysthymia is being overly critical of oneself. Individuals will say things like, “I’m so stupid” or “I’m no good at this” or even “no one likes me.” This habit can come across to others as an expression of humility or can be obvious in its unrealistically debased self-assessment. However it appears on the outside, on the inside it has damaging effects on an individual’s self-esteem.
Research studies have shown that talking to oneself in a demeaning way can lead to increased feelings of being unworthy or incapable of action. Thus, self-criticism can be both a symptom and a cause of depression, as the subconscious begins to believe the negative messages it receives. Replacing negative words with positive affirmations is a way to relieve this symptom.
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