We use self-destructive behavior as coping mechanisms to survive in the moment

By Carrie Heinze-Musgrove

We use self-destructive behavior as coping mechanisms to survive in the moment. Consequences be damned. We take comfort where we can find it.

The following are self-destructive behaviors most commonly associated with depression:

• Codependency
• Procrastination
• Avoiding responsibility
• Overeating to comfort yourself
• Being overly sensitive
• Social isolation
• Compulsive or addictive behaviors
• Poor sleep
• Excessive need for recognition or approval
• Excessive self sacrifice
• Having abusive relationships
• Hiding true feelings
• Unsafe sex
• Letting others run over or take advantage of you
• Not allowing others to help
• Neglecting your health
• Not exercising
• Rejecting others to avoid being rejected
• Self-pity
• Setting yourself up to fail
• Overspending to make you feel better
• Suffering in silence
• Suicidal thoughts, self-harm and self-injury